Confidence and Expectations Among Parents of and Students with Visual Impairments

Abstract

Introduction Early work experiences and education level predict future employment for students with visual impairments, but many neither work in high school nor obtain a college degree. A research team developed 4to24, an application (app) for students with visual impairments and their parents, to support students’ transitions to employment, beginning in preschool. The purpose of this study was to explore parents’ and students’ confidence and expectations before and after using the app for six months. Method The sample was comprised of 24 parents of children with visual impairments and 19 students with visual impairments. Participants rated their confidence in their child’s or their own skills in seven domains and reported their expectations for future education, employment, and independence. We used descriptive statistics to summarize participants’ confidence and expectations, and we examined changes in these measures over time. Results After using 4to24, participants increased their confidence significantly in three areas: community travel, using public transportation, and self-care. Frequency of app use coincided with increased confidence in several domains and with increased expectations for educational attainment. Discussion The results provide initial evidence of associations between app use and increases in confidence and expectations for future postsecondary education; however, we cannot draw conclusions about causality from this exploratory study. Application for Practitioners The 4to24 app provides free information, resources, and activity suggestions directly to students and parents. It can be beneficial for encouraging collaboration with practitioners, promoting high confidence and expectations, and reinforcing students’ skills.