Top 10 Questions for Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist Interview

1. How do you assess the orientation and mobility needs of a client with low vision?

• Conduct a comprehensive interview to gather information about the client’s visual acuity, field of vision, daily routines, and travel needs.
• Administer formal assessments, such as the Low Vision Visual Functioning Questionnaire (LVVFQ), to evaluate the client’s functional vision.
• Observe the client’s orientation and mobility skills in a variety of environments, such as home, school, and community settings.

2. Describe the techniques and strategies you use to teach cane travel to a client who is blind.

Techniques

• Tapping cane on the ground to detect obstacles.
• Arcing cane from side to side to locate objects and landmarks.
• Sweeping cane in a rotating motion to clear a path.

Strategies

• Breaking down the skill into smaller steps.
• Providing verbal instructions and demonstrations.
• Giving the client opportunities to practice in various environments.

3. How do you adapt orientation and mobility training for a client with cognitive impairments?

• Use simple language and short instructions.
• Break down tasks into smaller steps and provide frequent repetition.
• Use visual cues, such as maps and landmarks.
• Provide consistent support and encouragement.

4. Describe the role of technology in orientation and mobility training.

• GPS devices for navigation.
• Electronic magnifiers for reading and writing.
• Assistive listening devices for communication.
• Smartphones for access to information and services.

5. How do you collaborate with other professionals to provide comprehensive orientation and mobility services?

• Consult with ophthalmologists, optometrists, and low vision specialists to obtain medical information about the client’s visual condition.
• Work with occupational therapists and physical therapists to address mobility issues.
• Collaborate with rehabilitation counselors to provide vocational guidance and support.

6. Describe your experience in using assistive technology to enhance the orientation and mobility skills of clients.

• Trained clients on the use of GPS devices for navigation.
• Introduced clients to electronic magnifiers for reading and writing.
• Provided instruction on the use of assistive listening devices for communication.
• Taught clients how to use smartphones to access information and services.

7. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in orientation and mobility training?

• Attend conferences and workshops.
• Read professional journals and articles.
• Participate in online discussion forums.
• Network with other professionals in the field.

8. Describe a challenging case you have encountered in your work as an orientation and mobility specialist.

• Worked with a client who was blind and had cognitive impairments.
• Had to adapt training techniques to meet the client’s individual needs.
• Collaborated with other professionals to provide a comprehensive support system.
• Successfully helped the client to improve their orientation and mobility skills.

9. What are your goals for professional development as an orientation and mobility specialist?

• Obtain certification in low vision rehabilitation.
• Become a certified guide dog instructor.
• Develop a research project on the use of technology in orientation and mobility training.
• Present at national conferences on best practices in the field.

10. Why are you interested in working as an orientation and mobility specialist at our organization?

• Impressed by the organization’s mission and commitment to providing comprehensive rehabilitation services.
• Interested in working with a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals.
• Excited about the opportunity to contribute to the organization’s continued success.
• Confident that my skills and experience would be a valuable asset to your team.

A Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) is a trained professional responsible for providing services to individuals with visual impairment or blindness that enables them to live independently.

1. Assessment and Evaluation

Perform comprehensive assessments to evaluate individuals’ vision, orientation, and mobility skills.

• Collect patient history and present medical findings.
• Administer standardized tests to assess functional vision and mobility.

2. Orientation and Mobility Training

Develop and implement individualized training plans to enhance individuals’ ability to navigate indoor and outdoor environments safely and efficiently.

• Teach cane and guide dog techniques.
• Instruct on the use of assistive technology, such as GPS and audio feedback.

3. Sensory Development

Maximize individuals’ remaining senses through training exercises and strategies to improve spatial awareness, auditory perception, and tactile feedback.

• Facilitate sensory exploration activities.
• Incorporate sound cues and tactile cues into training.

4. Environmental Modifications

Evaluate environments, recommend modifications, and provide instructions to improve accessibility and safety for individuals with visual impairments.

• Conduct site assessments and recommend lighting adjustments.
• Suggest architectural modifications, such as adding handrails or tactile paving.

Preparing effectively for an interview can significantly increase your chances of success. Here are some tips tailored specifically for a Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist interview:

1. Research the Organization and Position

Familiarize yourself with the organization’s mission, values, and current initiatives. Research the specific role and understand its key responsibilities and requirements.

2. Practice and Structure Your Answers

Anticipate common interview questions and prepare concise, well-organized responses. Utilize the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, providing specific examples of your skills and experience.

3. Highlight Your Soft Skills

Emphasize your empathy, patience, and communication abilities. Interviewers seek candidates who can build strong relationships with visually impaired individuals and effectively convey complex concepts.

4. Demonstrate Your Technical Expertise

Showcase your knowledge of orientation and mobility techniques, assistive technology, and environmental modifications. Share your experience utilizing these methods to enhance the independence of visually impaired individuals.

5. Be Enthusiastic and Professional

Convey your passion for serving individuals with visual impairments and your commitment to improving their quality of life. Maintain a positive and professional demeanor throughout the interview.