We understand that it can sometimes be difficult selecting which
images should be turned into tactile graphics. We are sometimes
sent all of the images which appear in a course or module. But
if we were to produce all of those images it could be overwhelming
for the student, and potentially quite costly for the organisation
involved. The following guidelines are designed to offer assistance
in the selection process:
Consider your graphical materials:
- Is the real object available for touching?
- Can you describe the diagram verbally?
- Is there a model available for touching e.g. of body organs
or chemistry molecule?
YES - If so, use these methods: it will be more cost-effective
and easier for the student.
NO - If the answer is no for these three questions: you should
consider using tactile graphics.
Criteria for how to select diagrams for tactile production
- Review materials well in advance: tactile graphics need time
to be produced.
- Identify the essential graphics only from materials that
you use: It is not easy or useful for a blind student
to explore large number of graphics, therefore be selective.
- Identify the objectives of the original materials.
- Identify key graphics to support those objectives.
- Specify critical and irrelevant details on each graphic: too
much information on a tactile graphic makes it complicated.
- Can you use a generic graphic instead of using a set of similar
graphics or do you need specific graphics?
- Identify the requirements of the intended user, such as learning
stage or ability to use graphics.
- Meet their needs if possible and provide training as needed.
Once you have selected the appropriate images required, see how to order a new graphic.
