Why is it important to assess tactile skills in students who are blind before introducing braille?

Assessing tactile skills in students who are blind before introducing braille is crucial because these skills lay the foundation for the student's ability to read and interpret braille effectively. Tactile skills involve the ability to discern textures, shapes, and patterns through touch, which is essential for understanding the unique characteristics of braille dots.

A strong tactile sense enables students to recognize the different configurations of braille, which consists of raised dots that represent letters and numbers. If students do not have well-developed tactile skills, they may struggle to differentiate between letters, which can hinder their learning process.

Understanding the student's ability to identify shapes through touch directly impacts their readiness to learn braille, making it an essential consideration before introducing this literacy method. Developing tactile skills can also enhance the overall learning experience, leading to a smoother transition into reading braille and ultimately fostering greater independence in literacy.