San Diego | Classes
On-Site Classes
We look forward to welcoming students back to our centers, however please note the new safety protocols below that are required. Only students with scheduled classes or appointments may visit the centers on the appointed days.
New Safety Protocols For In-Person Visits To Braille Institute Center*
- All students, library patrons and volunteers must be fully vaccinated. Definition of “fully vaccinated” is having received both shots of a two-dose vaccination series (Pfizer or Moderna) or the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine AND received a booster once “booster-eligible.” Booster-eligible is defined as 6 months after the second dose for Pfizer or Moderna or 2 months after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
- All students must provide proof of full vaccination status prior to registering for classes.
- All persons must wear face covering upon entering and while in the building. The face covering must be a surgical grade,
N95 or KN95 mask. - No more than one additional person may escort student/patron to the center.
- Please stay home if you are feeling ill or exhibiting any symptoms (cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, fever, chils, shortness of breath, loss of smell or taste, body aches, diarrhea, nausea vomiting, etc.).
Students and patrons who are unable to meet the guidelines above can continue to receive services and support through our remote capabilities as an alternative option.
Remote Classes
You can attend “live and online” classes and workshops remotely from the comfort of your home. We utilize the Microsoft Teams platform for our distance learning classes which you can attend using your computer, tablet, smartphone or traditional phone.
How Does It Work?
Braille Institute will provide you with an online link or phone number that will be used to connect to your specific class or workshop. Each session is live so you have the ability to speak with the instructor and other participants. If you need assistance or training with using Microsoft Teams, you can view helpful videos on our website at brailleinstitute.org/remote-services or call the center at 1-800-BRAILLE to schedule 1-1 help from a technology specialist. All services are free of charge.
Braille Institute Classes
Classes are held over multiple weeks during the semester period and attended weekly. Classes are for individuals who are presently students of Braille Institute. In order to become a student, you must complete a low vision assessment or have been on-boarded by a Braille Institute Intake Specialist. Classes are offered by each of the seven Braille Institute centers with some classes being held in-person at the center and other held remotely which are attended by phone, computer or smartphone.
On-Site Classess
On-Site classes are held in person over multiple weeks during the semester period and attended weekly. Classes are for individuals who are presently students of Braille Institute. In order to become a student, you must complete a low vision assessment or have been on-boarded by a Braille Institute Intake Specialist.
To register for classes at San Diego, contact the Registrar at 858-404-5021.
Technology
Whatever your degree of vision loss there is technology to help you live with greater ease. Discover how to use the latest and most user-friendly devices and apps through one-on-one training at Connection Pointe.
Is There an App for That?
Wednesdays 10 – 11am
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 07
Discover and share all useful apps available for those with low to no vision. We will discuss apps for productivity, entertainment, shopping, navigation, and more!
Intro to iPhone and iPad Using Voiceover
Wednesdays 11 am – 12 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 07
In person class, using Voiceover on your iPhone/iPad, you can navigate the device even if you can’t see the screen. Learning the basics, you’ll be able to make calls, get voicemail, check weather and much more.
iPhone and iPad for Low Vision Tips and Settings
Wednesdays 1 – 2 pm
Class meets every other Wednesday starting September 7
This class covers low vision accessibility settings, features and tips for the iPhone and iPad, as well as how to use stock apps: Mail, Notes,
Safari, Contacts and Messaging.
Life Skills
Learn simple adaptive techniques to support activities of daily living so you can feel more confident and address your most fundamental needs.
Braille Reading and Writing
Tuesdays 9 – 10 am, 10 – 11 am, 11 am – 12 pm, 1 – 2 pm
Wednesdays 10 – 11 am, 11 am – 12 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 06 and 07
Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught in one-on-one lessons only.
Eat Smart
Wednesdays 12:30-2pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 07
Learn to make smart food choices and healthy ways to proportion your food. In this class learn fun and healthy recipes. 6 students maximum.
Staying Active
There is evidence that it is healing to mind, body and spirit when we share and connect with others who are experiencing and adjusting to vision loss.
Painting Freestyle
Tuesdays 10 – 12 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 06
Off-Site Location
This class is designed to teach students how to paint with watercolors. The class is structured for individuals based on visual abilities and
their level of creativity.
Healing Mind and Body
Tuesdays 1 – 2 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 06
Visually impaired adults practice techniques to keep mind and body healthy and alert during these challenging times.
Critical Thinking
Connecting and interacting with others in a classroom is a powerful way to combat social isolation and loneliness. Come connect with new ideas and new friends.
Talk Foodie to Me
Mondays 11 am – 12 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 12
If you enjoy eating food, talking about food, and planning food adventures, this class is for you! The ultimate goal of the class is to find out about different types of foods while challenging your knowledge of food with some fun trivia questions.
Let’s Talk Music
Mondays 1 – 2 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 12
Join this fun and interactive class as we listen to different musical
genres and discuss them. Listen to golden oldies as well as
music of today.
Blind Rhythm
Thursdays 1 – 2 pm
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 08
Visually impaired students dance and get fit with R&B and Hip-Hop group dance sessions led by a visually impaired instructor.
Record Your Legacy
Fridays (every other) 1 – 2 pm
Class meets every other Friday, starting September 09
In this class students will have the opportunity to record their life story using a digital audio recorder. Classes will be held virtually every other Friday. The final sessions include coming into the San Diego Center studio to create the audio recording.
Remote Class Descriptions
Technology & Communications
Whatever your degree of vision loss there is technology to help you live with greater ease. Discover how to use the latest and most user-friendly devices and apps through one-on-one training at Connection Pointe.
Technology News and Support Group
Mondays 1 – 2 pm
This is a weekly virtual computer lab with guided topics and discussions regulated, driven, and supported by your Connection Pointe team. Participants have the opportunity for training, to share information, and support one another. The focus will be on technology and accessibility.
Introduction to Victor Reader
Thursdays 1 – 2 pm
Learn how to download audio books from National Library Services using the Victor Reader Stream, listen to radio stations, create notes and more. A Victor Reader required.
Advanced iPhone and iPad Voiceover
Fridays 11 – 12 pm
In this class we’ll cover typing, editing text, using and changing settings, and troubleshooting tips.
Record Your Legacy
Fridays 1 – 2 pm
Class meets every other Friday, starting September 9
In this class students will have the opportunity to record their life story using a digital audio recorder. Classes will be held virtually every other Friday. The final sessions include coming into the San Diego Center studio to create the audio recording.
Life Skills
Learn simple adaptive techniques to support activities of daily living so you can feel more confident and address your most fundamental needs.
Maximizing Your Vision: Daily Living Skills Groups
DATE
Low vision and blind students will explore a variety of daily living skills to maintain an independent lifestyle. Topics to include health management, cleaning and organization, financial management, reading and writing. All students must be registered and evaluated by Low Vision Services prior to enrolling in class.
English as a Second Language (ESL)
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 08
Improve your ESL communication skills for personal and professional success.
O&M Essentials
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 09
Join us for weekly topics presented on the basics of O&M for safe and efficient travel skills. Visually challenged students will share and learn together.
Young Adult Group
This class will meet monthly and is for visually impaired young adults (19-35 years). These sessions create a space for socialization and connection while preparing for next steps toward an independent life. Curriculum will be shaped by participating students. Join and together we will create the program that helps you.
Reading and Writing
Not being able to read or write standard print does not need to be a barrier to accessing literature or nonfiction. We have classes that encourage exploring audio books and learning the braille code, which enables you to continue enjoying books, magazines and newspapers.
Braille Reading and Writing
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 08
Covers alphabet, numbers, punctuation and abbreviations. For remote services, Braille Reading and Writing is taught in one-on-one lessons only.
US History Book Club
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 12
Join visually impaired students as we read and discuss a wide range of works focused on the ever-fascinating history of America. Enjoy lively conversations with fellow history buffs.
Book Club
DATE
This monthly class is for visually impaired students interested in virtual travel to amazing places and through time. Meet other reading enthusiasts who share a passion for novels and incredible fiction and non-fiction stories. Enjoy lively discussions. BARD encouraged. Talking books will be provided by the Braille Institute Library for those who require them.
Staying Active
There is evidence that it is healing to mind, body and spirit when we share and connect with others who are experiencing and adjusting to vision loss.
Yoga for VI
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 06
Join OG Yoga for a mindfulness based, gentle step-by-step compassionate yoga practice. Braille Institute has partnered with OG Yoga for several years to provide the healing power of yoga, and facilitating breath work, supported poses, and meditation to help control internal stress, build strength, and develop equanimity in the face of extreme stressors.
Tip Tap Tunes
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 08
In this class, students request the title track of their favorite records, Have fun reminiscing and tapping your feet to your favorite music.
Engage in fun music trivia questions and accumulate points.
Critical Thinking
Connecting and interacting with others in a classroom is a powerful way to combat social isolation and loneliness. Come connect with new ideas and new friends.
Trivia
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 07
Challenge your knowledge of celebrities, music, television and sports. Some challenges and fun for everyone.
Cliches and Proverbs
Full term 15 weeks, starting September 07
Listen and respond to fun popular cliches in conversation, movies, books and more.
Remote Class Schedule
Mondays
Braille Reading and Writing
1:1 weekly session scheduled at time of registration.
9 – 10 am
Sharon
Phone
10 – 11 am
Sharon
Phone
11 am – 12 pm
Sharon
Phone
Maximizing Your Vision: Daily Living Skills Groups
10:30 am – 12 pm
Melissa
Teams
Technology News and Support Group
1 – 2 pm
Nikki
Teams
US History Book Club
1 – 2 pm
Hiram
Teams
Tuesdays
Yoga for VI
11 am – 12 pm
Megan
Teams
Healing Mind and Body
1 – 2 pm
Sheila/Fred
Teams & On-Site
Wednesdays
Trivia
11 am – 12 pm
Mary
Teams
Cliches and Proverbs
1 – 2 pm
Mary
Teams
Trivia
2 – 3 pm
Mary
Teams
Thursdays
Braille Reading/Writing
9 – 10 am
Sharon
Phone
10 – 11 am
Sharon
Phone
11 am – 12 pm
Sharon
Phone
Tip Tap Tunes
10 – 11 am
Shon
Teams
English as a Second Language (ESL)
11 am – 12 pm
Michele
Teams
Introduction to Victor Reader
1 – 2 pm
Denise
Teams
Blind Rhythm
1 – 2 pm
Shon
Teams & Off-Site
Fridays
Advanced iPhone and iPad Voiceover
11 – 12 pm
Nikki
Teams
O&M Essentials
11 – 12 pm
Keema
Teams
Book Club
Class meets monthly on Fridays:
September 16, October 21, November 18, December 16
1 – 2:30 pm
Dennis & Theresa
Teams
Young Adult Group
Class meets monthly on Fridays:
September 16, October 14, November 11, December 09
2 – 3 pm
Wanda
Teams
Record Your Legacy
Class meets every other Friday, starting September 09
1 – 2 pm
Julius
On-Site & Teams
Clases Remota en Español
Clases Remotas para Estudiantes del Braille Institute
- Classes semanales conducidas en linea para estudiantes del Braille Institute
- Classes se llevarán acabo durante varias semanas durante el semestre
- Los estudiantes deberian haber completado un examen de visión o deberian haber obtenido permiso de un especialista del Braille Institute.
Para registrarse a clases en San Diego llame la oficina de registro
al 858-404-5021.
Grupo de Apoyo En Español
Miercoles 11 am – 12 pm
Gigi
Teams
Este grupo está destinado a proporcionar un espacio seguro y de apoyo para todos. Comparta su propia experiencia relacionado con la perdida de la visión y como ha impactado su vida. Tendrá la oportunidad de hablar con otros; compartir preocupaciones, frustraciones e historias en común; y encontrar soluciones a sus dificultades relacionadas con la visión.
Tour de Aprendizaje Global En Español
Los jueves 10 – 11 am
Nicole
Teams
El objetivo de la clase es “viajar alrededor del mundo” sin dejar su asiento. Conozca sobre la cultura, historia y noticias actuales de diferentes paises cerrando cada sesion con un mensaje importante
y una leccion de vida.