Abstract for Tactile Graphics 2008
Title:
Awareness of tactile graphics amongst students and educational professionals
Reference: P4-A
Presenter: Helen Petrie
University of York, UK
Co Authors: Christopher Power, David Swallow
Abstract:
Tactile graphics are important educational tools for blind students in postsecondary education. Almost all subjects at higher educational levels use graphic information to some extent. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that few students are provided with tactile graphics at this level. Our study investigated the experience of professionals and disabled students in postsecondary education in seven different countries via online surveys, interviews and focus groups. This paper presents results on students’ use and need for tactile graphics and professionals’ awareness of the usefulness of tactile graphics and their institutions’ ability to provide them. Highlights include a lack of awareness of tactile graphics amongst professionals in comparison to other alternative formats. Suggestions for how to overcome problems identified are presented.
Objectives of presentation:
- document the awareness of tactile graphics amongst students and professionals in postsecondary education
- present the results of online surveys, interviews and focus groups conducted on these issues
- discuss ways to address the problems identified by this research
Outcomes for audience:
- Knowledge of research with students and professionals in postsecondary education on their awareness of and need for tactile graphics
- Strategies for addressing problems such as lack of awareness of tactile graphics
Prior knowledge of topic assumed: Low
Contains advanced technical content: No
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