Abstract
This research proposal looks at the topic of color blindness and includes a literature review including some historical background and some data presented in the research found on the topic of color blindness. The article concludes with an attempt to answer the research question using the information found and the knowledge gained on the subject.
Research Question
How well does WIU accommodate students with color blindness?
Introduction
Congenital color vision deficiency is one of the commonest inherited disorders of vision: may be as high as 8% of males and 0.5% of females.
Ishihara Color Test
Methods
The research proposal suggests the work done in 1989 by Stewart and Cole is applicable today regarding how the colorblind observer is impacted by their handicap. Data will be presented from this article with the premise that it is applicable today. The methodology used by Stewart and Cole would be applicable today, they used the Ishihara 24 plate test at a distance of 300 mm and illuminated by a daylight fluorescent lamp with a color temperature of 6500 Kelvin output. The lamp had a nominal color rendering index of 92 and provided an illuminance of 600 lux. Subjects were excluded with any sign of ocular disease.
Results
The results reported dichromats and anomalous trichromats are presented in Figure 1 of this research proposal. Dichromats reported difficulty more often than anomalous trichromats with selection of colored goods, craft work and household tasks, plant and flower recognition, and with the selection of ripe fruits and vegetables. Nearly one-quarter of the color defective subjects reported difficulties with sporting activities. Typical difficulties were the confusion of opposing teams because of the uniforms could not be distinguished.
Percentage of subjects reporting difficulty with everyday tasks that involve color
Figure 1
Conclusion
It is reasonable to conclude that residents of Macomb and WIU students have the same level of handicap and difficulty with everyday tasks that involve color. The importance of detecting color blindness to develop an understanding of an individual handicap is the greatest finding of this research. According to the American Optometric Association and the American Academy of Ophthalmology it is necessary to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist regularly in order to keep your eyes in good working order. Eye professionals recommend that everyone see an eye doctor at least every three years. Be sure to ask about your color vision if you are not screened for during your exam