Leawood summer camp teaches visually impaired teens coding and web development
By Krista Tatschl
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LEAWOOD, Kan. (KMBC) — Learning to code can be challenging for anyone.
Imagine doing it without being able to see the screen.
That’s exactly what about 15 visually impaired teenagers are doing this week at a coding camp in Leawood, where students are learning to build Websites while gaining confidence and computer skills.
For many campers, it’s their first experience with web development.
“Today is my first time creating websites,” camper Mary Rose said.
The camp introduces students to Linux and coding using adaptive technology and keyboard commands instead of visual cues.
Teachers guide campers through commands while students learn to navigate computers by touch and memory.
“I memorize where the keys are,” camper Jude Nickson said.
Some keys are marked with raised bumps to help students orient themselves on the keyboard.
The process includes plenty of trial and error, but campers say that’s all part of learning.
“I never get frustrated,” Mary Rose said. “Some people get frustrated.”
Instead, she found herself enjoying the challenge.
“It’s actually fun!” she said.
For Jude, the camp offers more than technical skills.
“I really like tech. I think it’s very interesting,” he said. “I wanted to make new friends.”
Next week, the campers will head to an adventure camps, where they’ll take on activities like climbing and other physical challenges, all without sight.
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