[Pibe-division] Question about Becoming a TVI

Tue Feb 25 18:23:14 UTC 2014

I had a BS in Psychology before earning my Masters degree in TBS (what the Louisiana Tech program calls TVI). As the other teachers have said depending on where he decides to go, in Louisiana there are usually two different tracks for any masters level education program, one is for certified teachers and one for non-teachers. The non-teacher program is usually called an alternative certification program. The one in Louisiana is generally know as the Teach Louisiana Program. 
In order to enroll in these programs, you must meet the minimum ACT requirements or take the GRE and pass the Praxis I test which is a basic English/reading/mathematics test. 
In our programs, the education course work is factored in to the masters degree. But it will require more classes. You could take classes early but if not certified, you will likely need to fill those hours with something else or even retake the classes if the credits do not transfer. I would take a look at the plan of study to determine what to take. Like the others have said there are many programs available online, of course being an alumni, I would urge him to consider the Louisiana Tech program. 
Good luck! 
-Kristen 

> On Feb 25, 2014, at 10:46 AM, "Kaiti Shelton" <crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> Hello Marianne and Denise,
> 
> Thank you for your input.  He's planning to really get his stuff
> together and figure out which programs to apply for over the summer.
> I'm sure he'll get set up for any tests he may need to take then, too.
> It might also be possible that next year he could fit in the basic
> education courses he will need while finishing his psychology degree,
> or may be able to take the courses over the summer.  I'm sure that
> knowing this is a possibility will be comforting though.
> 
> Thanks,
> 
>> On 2/25/14, Marianne Denning <marianne at denningweb.com> wrote:
>> Again, the background courses would depend on the state where the
>> school is located.  I completed my course work through Salus
>> University and had to have a course in foundations of education and
>> human growth and development.  He will also probably need to take a
>> Praxis 1 test and maybe, the GRE.
>> I also had to take a class on teaching reading.  I have 2 more courses
>> I need to take even though I have been working as a TVI for almost 5
>> years.  He should begin checking the different programs soon to see
>> what the requirements for admission will be.
>>> On 2/25/14, denise millette <dlmillette at friendlycity.net> wrote:
>>> Katie,
>>> I don't thinkk he would have much trouble getting into a program.
>>> However, he would probably be required to complete some background
>>> educational courses. I was a teacher already when I decided to pursue
>>> my Master's as a TVI so I had the Education and Special Education
>>> courses necessary. Someone from outside the educational field would
>>> most likely need to take some foundation level courses. Not impossible
>>> at all, just a little bit more time consuming. I agree that a degree
>>> in Psychology could benefit him in a future career as a TVI when
>>> dealing with the emotional issues of the students, parents and
>>> teachers. I know that at least one of my colleagues in my current
>>> program has a Psychology background so it is certainly possible.
>>> 
>>> Denise :)
>>> 
>>>> On 2/25/14, Kaiti Shelton <crazy4clarinet104 at gmail.com> wrote:
>>>> Hello,
>>>> 
>>>> My name is Kaiti Shelton and I am a college student in Ohio.  I am
>>>> writing because I know someone who seriously wants to become a TVI and
>>>> needs some additional resources.  I hope no one minds that I am
>>>> writing on someone else's behalf, as he currently does not have
>>>> internet access.
>>>> 
>>>> The major concern for him at this point is that he is unsure he will
>>>> be able to get into a masters program with the degree he will have by
>>>> the end of next year (He's working on earning a B.S in psychology).  I
>>>> am sure that the skills he has gained in his degree program will be
>>>> useful in teaching, but I know that typically those who become TVIs
>>>> start by earning special education or intervention specialist degrees.
>>>> Is it possible for someone with an undergrad degree in psych to go on
>>>> to get into a TVI masters program?  He is aware that there might be a
>>>> steep learning curb in terms of learning teaching techniques, how to
>>>> write lesson plans, etc, but he's willing to rise to the challenge.
>>>> 
>>>> Any advice or resources would be appreciated.
>>>> 
>>>> --
>>>> Kaiti
>>>> 
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>> 
>> 
>> --
>> Marianne Denning, TVI, MA
>> Teacher of students who are blind or visually impaired
>> (513) 607-6053
>> 
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> 
> 
> -- 
> Kaiti
> 
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