Learning Media Assessments
What is a Learning Media Assessment?
A Learning Media Assessment (LMA) determines how a student with a visual impairment best receives and processes information for learning. It evaluates the most effective combination of sensory channels, including vision, touch, hearing, smell, taste, and even proprioception, for acquiring literacy and other academic skills. This includes determining whether a student should learn print, braille, auditory materials, tactile symbols, or a combination of formats.
Unlike a standard educational assessment, an LMA specifically focuses on how the student accesses the curriculum, rather than their cognitive or academic abilities. It examines current learning media use, visual efficiency, sensory preferences, and potential needs for braille instruction, a modified tactile symbol system, and/or assistive technology. The LMA should be conducted with all visually impaired students birth through age 22, low vision through fully blind, gifted and talented through non-verbal and non-abulatory. All VI students benefit from a thorough and appropriate LMA every 3 years or more often if changes occur.
Why Are Learning Media Assessments Important?
Learning Media Assessments are critical for ensuring that students with visual impairments are taught in the most efficient and accessible way possible. A mismatch between a student’s sensory needs and their instructional materials can cause unnecessary frustration and limit learning.
An LMA helps answer questions like:
- Is the student currently using the most effective medium for reading and writing?
- Does the student need braille instruction now or might they in the future?
- How does the student respond to visual, tactile, and auditory materials in different settings?
- Are there assistive technologies that would enhance access to learning materials?
- What materials will help a non-verbal student be more independent and successful?
The LMA informs educational teams and families on how to balance the use of print, braille, audio, tactile, and/or digital tools. It ensures compliance with IDEA requirements and guidance from leading authorities such as Perkins School for the Blind and the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI). Above all, it helps students learn in a way that works for them, building confidence, independence, and academic/functional success
How Will Virtual TVI Perform Learning Media Assessments?
Virtual TVI offers thorough, student-centered Learning Media Assessments that meet the needs of both school districts and families, no matter your location. Our certified Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs) use evidence-based practices and nationally recognized tools to deliver meaningful, actionable results.
We offer two flexible delivery models:
- In-Person Assessment: A certified TVI visits your site to observe and work directly with the student using a wide variety of print, braille, tactile, and digital materials. Travel costs and availability will vary based on distance.
- Remote Assessment with Onsite Support: A Virtual TVI conducts the LMA over secure video conferencing, while an onsite staff member supports the session with materials we provide. This method has been successfully implemented in districts nationwide for many years.
Our Process
- Review of medical records, FVA data, and academic history
- Direct assessment using standardized and informal LMA tools
- Observations during natural learning routines (remote or in person)
- Interviews with the student, family, and educators
- Analysis of sensory preferences and learning efficiency
- Consideration of future needs for braille, tactile symbol, and/or auditory learning
- A comprehensive, clearly written report with individualized recommendations
Virtual TVI adheres to all federal and state requirements, providing both compliance and clarity. Whether you’re overseeing services as a Special Educator or advocating as a parent, our team ensures your student receives the right tools to access their education in the way that works best for them.