Active Learning Training

Active Learning

Part 1 - November 10, 2026

Part 2- January 12, 2027

8:30 AM REGISTRATION
9:00 AM - 4 PM ET (Lunch provided)

Many DeafBlind children and blind children with multiple impairments wait for adults to provide stimulation. Therefore, they become passive. Dr. Lilli Nielsen developed the approach known as Active Learning and designed equipment that is specifically for blind/visually impaired children with multiple disabilities. Active learning is an educational approach that emphasizes creating environments that encourage children, especially those with disabilities, to explore and learn independently. This method focuses on active participation and exploration rather than direct instruction, allowing children to engage with materials and experiences at their own pace.

This two-part training will focus on Dr. Nielsen's techniques and how to implement active learning with students who are deafblind and blind with multiple impairments. The first day will focus on introducing Active Learning techniques.  Between the introductory training and the follow-up training on January 12, 2027 and you will be given an assignment to help you learn how to implement active learning with your students.

Presenter: 

Kirstyn Martino is the Active Learning Specialist at Penrickton Center for Blind Children, a private, non-profit agency serving children who are visually impaired with multiple disabilities ages 1-12.  Ms. Martino uses her experience as a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist to advance the developing conversations about the Active Learning approach, striving for every child to become an active participant in their environment.

Ms. Martino is a member of the educational website activelearningspace.org, collaborating with Texas School for the Blind and Perkins School for the Blind to provide active learninginformation and professional development.  In addition, she has presented in-person and virtually throughout North America, as well as internationally.

 

Location: Bosma, 6270 Corporate Drive, Indianapolis, IN  46278 

Credit: Certificates of attendance/completion will be awarded with total contact hours for the session.

Registration Fee: $80.00 (This fee covers any materials and lunch.) 

Payment:  Checks and purchase orders should be made payable to Indiana State University (Federal ID # 35-6001670).

• Email purchase order to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

OR

• Mail check and purchase orders to:

Indiana State University
Bayh College of Education, Blumberg Center
401 North 7th Street
Terre Haute, IN 47809
ATTN: Kiara Shapuras
(Make checks payable to Indiana State University.)

OR

• Call (812) 237-2830 with credit card information.

Cancellation Policy:  No refunds will be made; however, registration can be transferred.

Questions? Contact Lisa Poff at 812-237-7679 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.