Introduction Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) typically affects children's overall functioning in visually cluttered environments. This study aims to consider whether the removal of classroom clutter ameliorates visual problems and the associated behavioral difficulties for these children. Methods Two classrooms at a special school were de-cluttered. Changes included: covering glass panels with thick black paper; hanging sheets over open shelving; creating areas of blank wall in front of the student to focus attention on work; removing unnecessary equipment and furniture; and taking down information on windows and walls, and that hanging from ceilings. Teachers, paraeducators, and students worked in these classrooms for two weeks, following typical daily routines. Observations by teachers and paraeducators of students’ behavior and learning experiences before and after de-cluttering were sought through interviews. Findings The perspectives of the teachers and paraeducators were that de-cluttering had a positive effect on the students’ learning experiences and behavior and also on their own functioning. They also considered the fact that creation of learning spaces lined with black paper resulted in greater attention and focus, but that students continued to be distracted by the noise and movement of others. Discussion The potential link between cluttered classrooms and students’ functioning and behavior indicates that visual clutter may amplify the visual difficulties associated with CVI and distract the students from learning activities, and is in line with current literature. Changes to classroom layouts that include specific areas for different learning activities, including “black hubs,” may therefore benefit students with CVI. Implications for practitioners This pilot study suggests that the elimination of classroom clutter and the creation of black hub learning spaces enhances functioning and merits further investigation. A study that compares specific behaviors and performances, before and after implementation of de-cluttering strategies, might also determine whether the positive effects described by the teachers can be further corroborated.

No abstract

No abstract

Collaboration is an essential component of optimal educational planning. In order to collaborate effectively, it is important that information from all of those involved with the learner is used to develop a multi-dimensional understanding of the child/youth. Yet the identification, sharing and collating of this key information can be a difficult process due to lack of time, a focus on specialist jargon, and lack of tools or expertise. In this article, we introduce a toolkit, called the New Zealand Child and Youth Profile, to assist educational teams to discuss key aspects of children’s functional experiences and abilities to inform educational planning. The toolkit is inspired by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health for Children and Youth (ICF- CY) but contextualised for New Zealand. The toolkit has recently been piloted and revised based on user feedback and is available for teams interested in using it to facilitate cross-disciplinary educational planning.

No abstract