The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) is a framework of nine specific skill areas that students with visual impairments need to learn in addition to the general education curriculum. These skills are crucial for students with visual impairments to develop independence, access the general curriculum, and live fulfilling lives. The ECC is not a separate curriculum, but rather a set of specialized skills that need to be systematically taught to ensure students with visual impairments can achieve their full potential. A TSVI (Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments) supports the inclusion of these skills, including providing assessment and direct instruction.

The nine specific skill areas are included in the puzzle pieces on the outside of the circle.

image of the nine skills areas of Expanded Core Curriculum for vision impairement

  • Nine Essential Skills

    The nine areas provide educators with a way of addressing the
    needs of students with visual impairments including those with additional disabilities.

Compensatory Skills

Listening and speaking skills; problem-solving skills; using tactile markers and labels.

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Assistive Technology

Keyboarding skills; using screen reading software; maintaining devices.

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Social Skills

Cooperative skills; appropriate body language; self-awareness skills.

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Self Determination

Self-advocacy; decision-making skills; understanding accessibility rights.

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Sensory Efficiency Skills

Active listening strategies; use of low vision devices; multi-sensory exploration.

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Independent Living Skills

Personal management skills; home management skills; preparing meals.

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Recreation & Leisure Skills

Motor skills; using adaptive sports equipment; developing hobbies.

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Career Education

Time management skills; work habits; post-graduation planning.

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Orientation & Mobility

Spatial and body awareness; using public transportation; intersection analysis.

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