149. Teaching O&M in New Zealand with Carina Duke
Topics:
orientation, mobility, visual impairments, professional growth, transformation, teaching, commitment, symposium, development, New Zealand, special education, blind, conferences, daily living skills, organization, specialist, low vision, rehabilitation, community
In the enchanting landscapes of New Zealand, where snow-capped peaks meet rolling hills and pristine lakes, a remarkable journey unfolds—one guided by the expertise and passion of Carina Duke, a trailblazer in the field of Orientation and Mobility (O&M). Nestled in the vibrant city of Christchurch, Carina's dedication to empowering individuals with visual impairments transcends the ordinary, creating ripples of positive change across the island nation. As a seasoned O&M instructor, Carina Duke's impact extends far beyond the classroom, reaching into the hearts and lives of those she teaches.
In this exploration of "Teaching O&M in New Zealand with Carina Duke," we delve into the captivating world of her innovative techniques, community engagement, and the transformative experiences that shape the landscape of orientation and mobility education in this picturesque corner of the world. Join us on a journey through the lens of Carina Duke, as we navigate the diverse terrains of New Zealand, both geographical and metaphorical, discovering the profound impact of her work in fostering independence and empowerment for individuals with visual impairments.
Carina Duke's Background and Expertise
Presently, Carina Duke assumes the role of a rehabilitation instructor, dedicating her expertise to Blind Low Vision New Zealand in Otautahi Christchurch, Aotearoa New Zealand. The journey commenced in 1989 when she initially joined what was then the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind, donning the hat of a recreation specialist. Over the years, Carina has undertaken various roles, with her primary focus being that of an orientation and mobility instructor. In her current capacity, she is instrumental in providing tailored programs for adults, encompassing orientation and mobility, activities for daily living, and functional low vision assessments. Her training covers a broad spectrum, ensuring she can provide a comprehensive range of services to the clients she work with. Carina’s goal is to empower her clients with the skills and confidence they need to navigate the world independently.
Carina stands as one of the pioneering trio of orientation and mobility instructors trained in New Zealand during the inception of the postgraduate course at Massey University in 1990, led by Professor Steve LaGrow. Beyond her instructional duties, Carina displays a profound interest in environmental design and accessibility, contributing significantly to the development of national guidelines for best practices in her field. She finds immense satisfaction in helping individuals with visual impairments overcome challenges and achieve greater independence. Whether teaching orientation and mobility skills, facilitating activities of daily living, or conducting assessments to understand functional low vision needs, each day brings new opportunities to make a positive impact on someone's life.
The Evolution of Orientation and Mobility in New Zealand
New Zealand's unique geography and diverse communities present both challenges and opportunities in the realm of O&M. Carina Duke recognizes the importance of tailoring her teaching methods to suit the individual needs and cultural backgrounds of her students. Whether it's navigating bustling urban centers or exploring the serene countryside, Carina's O&M instruction adapts to the specific demands of the New Zealand environment.
In reflecting on the evolution of Orientation and Mobility (O&M) since the early days, Carina, one of two individuals in New Zealand who underwent the O&M course in 1990, highlights the close-knit community of practitioners in the relatively small country with just over 5 million people. Despite the size, there is a strong commitment to professional development and conference attendance, allowing practitioners like Carina to stay abreast of global developments in the field.
The number of O&M instructors has increased over the years, with institutions like Massey University consistently producing new professionals. The shift from an initial emphasis on serving the blind to a more inclusive perspective reflects broader changes in approach within the organization, signaling positive transformations in the field of O&M.
The transition signifies a shift from a sense of working for or on behalf of clients to one of ownership and collaboration. This change aligns with the fundamental principle of placing the client at the center, creating a more client-centered organization. Carina notes that when both the individual O&M practitioners and the organization share this client-centered approach, it fosters a positive and cooperative atmosphere, making the work environment more conducive and welcoming.
Managing Caseloads and Planning Days
Carina's service is predominantly provided in clients' homes or communities, reflecting the intimate nature of her work. Managing her own caseload, she meticulously plans her day, adapting to the diverse needs of her clients. The focus might vary from orientation and mobility to a comprehensive range of programs covering daily living skills and functional low vision assessments. Balancing center-based assessments for magnification with on-site services, Carina ensures accessibility for clients in diverse locations, even those living far away.
Carina collaborates with a dynamic team, often sharing caseloads with other professionals specializing in daily living skills or functional vision. The collaboration extends beyond her immediate team, with a focus on effective case management to prioritize client outcomes. Despite the challenges of waitlists, Carina emphasizes the importance of delivering the best possible service.
Being itinerant, traveling to clients' homes, Carina faces the challenge of time management and professional development. However, the organization's support for professional growth has been invaluable. One notable challenge involves convincing clients of the benefits of using a white cane, navigating the stigma associated with visual impairment. Carina's approach is deeply client-centered, involving patience, encouragement, and understanding. Programs are often conducted in uncluttered, distraction-free environments, fostering a sense of safety and comfort for her clients.
Practical considerations, such as transportation, play a crucial role in Carina's work. Utilizing POCAs (private cars), she ensures efficient travel between clients, acknowledging the logistical challenges that come with covering an entire region. The ability to transport clients in her own car enhances the flexibility of the services she provides, allowing for a seamless transition between different environments tailored to each client's needs.
Making Time for Professional Development: A Commitment to Growth
Carina, like many educators, faces the challenge of juggling responsibilities. She emphasizes the crucial distinction between having time and making time for development, underlining the intentional effort required. Despite the inherent difficulties, Carina shares her personal approach to this challenge, revealing that she views professional development as an investment with substantial returns.
Carina's dedication to professional development goes beyond the practicalities. She recognizes the impact of staying connected with a global community, even in the age of the internet. There is a great amount of wealth of knowledge gained from both clients and peers. Her humility shines through as she expresses the belief that there is always something new to learn, whether from a seasoned client or a fellow professional. The collaborative approach to problem-solving with clients reflects her dedication to creating a supportive learning environment.
The ability to connect with educators brings a unique perspective and highlights the strength of the international community. Carina's willingness to reach out and connect beyond her immediate circles stands out in a profession that often finds individuals on isolated islands. She emphasizes the invaluable connections forged through conferences and symposiums, citing examples of friendships and mentorships that have enriched her journey and fostering a sense of unity among educators worldwide.
The Power of Adaptation and Learning
Carina's commitment to staying current in her field extends to technology, an ever-evolving aspect of rehabilitation. The challenges of limited access to certain apps in New Zealand and the collaborative effort required to explore and implement new technologies reflect the adaptive nature of her approach.
Reflecting on the evolution of technology and its role in education, Carina underscores the transformative power of adapting to new tools. From the early days of working with green-dot screens to the Zoom era, she shares how the profession has continually evolved. The challenges posed by lockdowns compelled educators to become "Zoom specialists," revealing the resilience and adaptability of the education community.
Highlighting the practical impact of the O&M symposium, Carina shares a poignant example of how a presentation on wheelchair guiding strategies profoundly influenced her work. The timely information equipped her to better assist a client with CVI using an electric wheelchair, showcasing the direct application of symposium learnings in real-world scenarios. Additionally, she appreciates symposiums for offering global perspectives on the varied approaches to O&M education, acknowledging the differences in roles and regulations across countries.
Carina emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the humility to acknowledge that there's always more to discover. Her passion for problem-solving and the joy of helping others navigate challenges underscore her commitment to personal and professional growth.
Carina’s Transformative Advice for Taking the Next Step
Passion - Passion, she notes, is the fuel that propels educators forward, driving us to continuously seek improvement and adapt to the changing needs of their students. It is this fervor that makes the journey of teaching not just a profession but a personal commitment to making a positive impact.
Community Support - A key aspect of Carina's advice revolves around the significance of building a robust support network within the O&M community. Recognizing the challenges that educators face, she advocates for creating a sense of community where no one feels isolated. The idea is to encourage open communication, where questions are not only welcomed but celebrated as opportunities for collective learning. Carina emphasizes that no question is too trivial, as each query contributes to the growth and enhancement of the entire community.
Sharing Knowledge - One of the remarkable aspects of the O&M community, according to Carina, is the willingness of O&M specialists to share their knowledge. Unlike other fields where information might be guarded, O&M specialists exhibit a collaborative spirit. Carina encourages educators to actively engage with their peers, both locally and internationally. Through this shared knowledge pool, educators can draw from a wealth of experiences, gaining insights that go beyond textbooks and traditional training.
Patient Listening - Carina underscores the importance of patience and active listening in the teaching process. Whether working with adults or children, taking the time to understand and listen to the students is crucial. She believes that students, regardless of age, should direct the educational program. By patiently observing and listening, educators can tailor their approach to meet the unique needs and preferences of each learner, fostering a more effective and personalized learning experience.
In conclusion, Carina Duke's journey as a rehabilitation instructor in New Zealand offers a profound insight into the world of Orientation and Mobility education. Her commitment to professional development, passion for problem-solving, and dedication to building a supportive community underscore the importance of continuous learning in our field. As we reflect on her experiences and advice, let us be inspired to take that step forward, foster collaboration, and embrace the transformative power of education in shaping the lives of those with visual impairments.