October 1994 // Volume 32 // Number 3 // Ideas at Work // 3IAW2
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Adaptation of EFNEP Curriculum for Blind Participants
Abstract
The EFNEP curriculum was adjusted to accommodate a group of four blind participants. A braille machine was used at each lesson to record notes and copy recipes. Braille markers were made of washable plastic for measuring spoons, cups, and canisters. Kitchen order was found to be extremely important for the participants, so kitchen order was added as a lesson. EFNEP, which encourages all limited resource people to participate, should take into consideration the complex problems of some participants, especially those with disabilities.
An Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) Program Assistant recruited four blind people from Pocatello, Idaho into EFNEP classes. A variety of problems emerged because of their disability, and the traditional EFNEP curriculum had to be adapted to accommodate their needs. The EFNEP Extension Home Economist and Program Assistant worked with this group to provide useful information and equipment for them. Teaching methods were adjusted so that other senses besides sight could be used to teach nutritional information.
A large braille machine was used at each lesson to record notes and copy recipes. A smaller portable braille instrument could be used for note taking by those who are trained on the device. Hands-on lessons literally involved the participants doing hands-on as the Program Assistant talked them through each experience step by step. Braille markers were made of washable plastic for marking measuring spoons, cups, and canisters. A liquid measuring cup can be purchased that beeps when filled to a certain pre-determined level. Plastic food models were used for every lesson so serving sizes could be more accurately understood.
Kitchen order was found to be extremely important for the participants, so kitchen order was added to the lesson on kitchen cleaning and food safety. A braille machine was used to tag food items in the cupboard and any new groceries purchased at the store. These tags are paper and can be taped on the top of grocery items for easy retrieval when needed at a later time. Plastic tags that attach to elastic bands that fit over cans and other food items and can be purchased and reused indefinitely.
EFNEP 24 hour food recall scores were taken at the beginning of the program and every three months until the participants graduated. There was an average 35 point increase in the 24 hour food recall scores from entry to graduation for the blind program participants.
Because EFNEP encourages all limited resource people to participate, it should take into consideration the complex problems of some participants. This can guide us to adapt curriculum to fit special needs and help achieve self-reliance and self-esteem for participants and their families in the area of food and nutrition.