ESU Faculty Develops One-Of-A-Kind Science Lab Manual for Visually Impaired Students
Innovative resource brings hands-on science to all learners for just $20.
Emporia, KS (12/04/2025) — Emporia State University associate professor Erika Martin, in collaboration with Whitney Davidson, has released "The Adapted Biology Lab Manual," an innovative and affordable digital resource designed to make science accessible, and enjoyable, for high school students who are blind or have low vision.
Rooted in the belief that everyone should enjoy science, Martin developed the manual to ensure students of all visual abilities could participate fully and simultaneously in biology lab activities. The publication features 12 adaptable modules appropriate for blind, low-vision and sighted learners, along with a robust set of teacher resources, including links to low-cost equipment and budget-friendly methods for completing each lab.
The project began 10 years ago when Martin encountered three blind students in one of her first classes at ESU. Traditional accommodations relied on pairing blind students with sighted partners who conducted the lab work and reported results verbally, an approach that excluded blind students from hands-on scientific exploration. Determined to change that, Martin collaborated over several years with a student who openly disliked biology to redesign lab activities that were fully accessible, engaging and empowering.
"There is so much to understand and enjoy in the world," Martin said. "And I can only hope that I have added something meaningful that will bring biology to everyone and spark joy and enthusiasm for learning."
After successful nationwide field testing and the support of a forward-thinking publisher, "The Adapted Biology Lab Manual" is now available, believed to be the only biology lab manual of its kind.
The manual is offered through American Printing House for $20, providing an affordable, transformative tool for educators seeking inclusive science curriculum.
About Emporia State University
Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its institute and seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business & Technology, Humanities & Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Library and Information Management & Library and Archives, Science & Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.
ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.
For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.
Emporia State University
Gwendolynne Larson, ESU director of media relations, (620) 341-5528, glarson1@emporia.eduShare this Story
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