Independent Running System for children with visual impairment

An Independent Running System (IRS) allows young visually impaired children to develop proper running technique without the support of a running guide or digital assistive technology system. As there are more students with various forms of visual impairment in the mainstream schools, this system would help PE teachers in the mainstream school to conduct simple running/movement activities alongside their sighted peers, modelling the IRS system, and making PE inclusive in the future. This simple system was developed by Dr (Hon). Kumaran Arumugam, who is a Subject Lead and a PE teacher at Lighthouse School, works closely with students with sensory disabilities. IRS has improved many of the students from the lower primary level from at Lighthouse school who initially struggled with learning the correct technique of gross motor skill needed in developing proper running methods. Running is a fundamental motor skill that prepares kids for more complex sports participation.

The recommended daily amount of time spent engaging in Moderate-Vigorous Physical Activity (MVPA) has not been met by children with Vision Impairments (VI) in Singapore. Developing a healthy lifestyle as an adult depends on encouraging vigorous sports involvement at a young age. To enable children with VI in mainstream schools to run independently, this suggested concept will offer IRS as an assistive device to support students with visual impairment in mainstream schools. 

1. Allow the visually impaired student to orientate themself on the railing by feeling the different part of the system, such as the sashes with bells and the location of the flat markers on the floors, which are located at Point A & B. 

2. Ensure that the VI students keep their hand closest to the railing when using the IRS system. 

3. Start by allowing the VI student to walk a few repetitions from Point A to B and back to Point A again.

4. Once the student has developed confidence, you can allow them to jog from Point A to B and back to Point A, keeping the hand closest to the railing at all times. 

5. Ensure only one student using the IRS system at all times. 

6. Encourage the students to slow down when they feel the flat markers on the floor before coming to a complete stop at both points A & B 

Through this IRS system, we hope to have more students with visual impairments participating in PE lessons in the future, not just at Lighthouse School, but in other mainstream schools. With a safe and inclusive environment, students with visual impairments can safely participate in PE lessons and develop their motor skills.

Name: Desmond Koh (Not Real Name)

Age:12-year-old 

Disability Profile: Full Visually Impaired  

Student’s Testimonial: Using the independent system developed by my PE teacher has helped me develop confidence in running. Initially I used to have a fear of running as I’m always scared to trip over and fall or even bang into an object. But having a railing to hold onto gave me confidence to run and the flat markers gave me indication to slow down and before stopping on the sash with the bell. 

Name: Ahmad Ali (Not Real Name)

Age: 11-year-old 

Disability Profile: Full Visually Impaired  

Student’s Testimonial: As a boy, I started walking only later in life. As someone with slower physical development, using the Independent Running System helped me develop the correct form of running and allowed me to compete in various track and field competitions alongside my friends from school. I’m happy that I was also able to win medals and compete with other children with visual impairment. Now I am able to actively participate in physical activities with my parents whenever they go for their daily walk in the evening.