OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

This doctoral capstone project was completed in partnership with Blind Early Services Tennessee (BEST), a nonprofit organization focused on providing early intervention services for children with visual impairments. BEST currently supports more than 300 families throughout Tennessee, utilizing a multidisciplinary team approach that includes Teachers of the Visually Impaired (TVIs), Orientation & Mobility (O&M) specialists, Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Developmental Therapists (DTs). This project focused on developing kits that offered educational resources for families while also providing materials designed to support early learning in children with Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Deliverables included a sensory processing guide with activity ideas, QR codes linking to accessible community resources, tips for virtual services, a welcome letter to BEST, and the assembly and preparation of kits with included materials for shipment. Additional outcomes of this project included the development of a 3D printing initiative and the creation of tactile symbol card sets for children with visual impairments. Together, these efforts enhanced access to resources and supported early developmental outcomes for children with visual impairments and their families.

Publication Date

Spring 4-21-2026

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Alexandria Scherr

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

visual impairment; early intervention; cortical visual impairment (CVI); vision services; sensory processing

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