Abstract:
The goal of this study was to explore the psychosocial aspects within the workplace of people with visual impairment, after mobility training at Optima College Pretoria. The objectives of this study were: To build up a theoretical framework by means of a literature study as well as consultation with experts on the psychosocial aspects of people with visual impairment within the workplace after mobility training at Optima College. To conduct an empirical study of the psychosocial aspects of people with visual impairment within the workplace after mobility training at Optima College. To come to conclusions and to make recommendations for improved adaptation of people with visual impairment within the workplace. This qualitative study endeavoured to answer the following research question: What are the psychosocial aspects experienced by people with visual impairment within the workplace and what are the viewpoints of supervisors and colleagues in this regard? By answering this question, the researcher aimed to document these experiences to understand the phenomenon and to make recommendations for improved adaptation within the workplace. Non-probability sampling methods were used to select the five respondents. Data was gathered by conducting interviews, using semi-structured interview schedules with five people with visual impairment, as well as a supervisor and colleague for each of the five respondents. These interviews were taped and transcribed and subsequently analysed, extracting themes as well as sub-themes. The study was feasible, as it was within the financial and practical means of the researcher. She had access to the target group and she had permission from Optima College to conduct the study, using their resources, clients and data. Five main themes emerged from the data analysis, namely: 1.The adaptation at Optima College and the experience of the training 2.Adaptation at the workplace and investments made by the employers 3.Psychosocial aspects experienced within the workplace as well as in the community 4.The experiences of the supervisor of the person with visual impairment 5.The experiences of the colleague of the person with visual impairment. From the research findings, recommendations were made on micro, macro and meso-levels. On micro-level, people with visual impairment can play a role by telling supervisors and colleagues about their needs and problems. On macro-level, recent employers of people with visual impairment can motivate other employers to employ people with visual impairment. When stigmatization as well as prejudices are removed from society, employers will be more motivated to employ people with visual impairment. On meso-level, Optima College, the South African National Council for the Blind, as well as public media, can play a leading role in publishing positive articles regarding people with visual impairment in the workplace. Optima College must continue with the training of people with visual impairment.
