Abstract for Tactile Graphics 2008

Title: Tactile graphics for mobility and independence: Exercises for young learners

Reference: P6-C

Presenter: Boguslaw Marek

The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Poland

Abstract:

While tactile graphics seems to have received a permanent place in education of children with a visual impairment, the potential and limitations of raised images are not always fully realized. It is easy to forget that drawings involve "sighted" conventions not immediately obvious to someone who has never seen. The aim of the paper is to show how these conventions can be explained, and how tactile graphics and exercises in mobility and independence can benefit each other. A range of ideas are presented on engaging congenitally blind children in activities facilitating understanding of the relation between objects and drawings, and on using raised graphics for practicing and improving the child’s daily living skills and functioning in familiar and new environments

Objectives of presentation:

to draw attention to the importance of the distinction between availability and accessibility of tactile graphics
to identify sources of problems with understanding tactile graphics
to offer practical solutions

Outcomes for audience:

increased awareness of the potential and limitations of tactile graphics
understanding "sighted" conventions used in drawings
understanding the benefits of introducing tactile graphics in conjunction with exercises in mobility and daily living skills
awareness of the existence of tools facilitating meaningful contact with tactile graphics

Prior knowledge of topic assumed: Low

Contains advanced technical content: No

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