Visual perception training on social skills and activity performance in low-vision children

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two different visual perception training programmes on the social skills and activity performance of low-vision children. Forty children (aged 7-14 years) were randomly assigned into two groups with regard to the visual perception training performed: Group 1: aided paper and pen, and Group 2: with computer. The participants were evaluated before and after treatment using the Motor-Free Visual Perception Tests, Social Skills Assessment Tool for Children with Visual Impairments, and Canadian Occupational Performance Measurement. The training programmes were performed in the school for three months (two days/week and 45 minutes/day). In both groups, results of the social skills questionnaire showed significant differences before and after treatment (p < 0.01). Likewise, the results of the activity performance test indicated significant differences between the performance and total activity scores (p < 0.01). Both treatment programmes failed to show a significant relationship in respect of the increase in visual perception (p > 0.05). Based on these results, neither of the programmes tested appears to be superior to the other in low-vision children.