Development of computational skills in children with visual impairments during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

We know that the formation of numeracy skills in younger students remains one of the main tasks of teaching elementary mathematics. Because calculation skills are necessary both in practical life and
in training. The computational skills of visually impaired students should be formed consciously and firmly, since on their basis all initial courses in mathematics are designed to develop computational skills based on the conscious use of computational methods.
This article discusses the importance of developing computational skills in visually impaired children during the COVID-19 pandemic. In this regard, the authors draw attention to the fact that the problem of the lack of connection between theoretical training and experience  in developing the computational skills of visually impaired primary school students in the primary education system, as well as in distance learning, remains
unresolved.
In connection with the problem of the study, the first levels of understanding of the computational skills of visually impaired students of grades 3-4 were revealed. In the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, methods of developing knowledge, skills, and abilities in children with visual impairments were considered, the advantages and disadvantages of distance technologies during practical training in special schools of the country were revealed. During the experiment, approaches to non-standard calculations were considered, in addition to standard ones. In particular, the multiplication rules of the Swiss mathematician Jacob Trachtenberg have become widespread. It was noticed that these approaches were understandable and interesting to students.
To transfer the attention of children with eye abnormalities to classes, first of all, neuro-gymnastic exercises were carried out. This ensured increased attention of children, interest in mathematics, as well as active participation of students in practice.
Depending on the task of the study, the initial levels of understanding of the development of computational skills of visually impaired students in grades 3-4 were identified. The advantages and disadvantages of distance learning technology have become obvious.