Fostering Independence Through Refreshable Braille

Abstract:

It is becoming apparent that blind persons using screen review programs that rely solely on speech output, still experience difficulty accessing computer text presented in a non-traditional layout (graphs, charts, tables). The emergence of refreshable Braille technology in the Windows environment is promising to overcome some of the shortcomings of speech technology. Information in this presentation is based on findings of a research project funded through the Office of Learning Technology.

The presentation will describe what is required for an adaptive computer workstation that includes refreshable Braille. This includes system requirements and supporting hardware and software. Presenters will outline tasks where refreshable Braille technology is most helpful with acccess to information. This includes reading spreadsheets, computer programming, and numerical information in general.

Planning for training and support are critical issues for ensuring successful use of this technology. Discussion will include identification of factors that influence the length of time required to be proficient in using Braille technology in educational and vocational environments.

Presenter:

Ms. Gladys Loewen
Mr. Vince Tomassetti

Gladys Loewen (M. Ed) is the manager of a provincial program that provides adaptive technology to students and employees with disabilities in BC in order to meet educational and vocational goals. Gladys has been in the field of disability services for 20 years.

Vince Tomassetti is a Vison Technology Consultant supporting clients with visual impairments on the use of adaptive technology. As a user of the technology, Vince has extensive experience with applying adaptive technology to overcome barriers in the educational and vocational environments. He is also a student at Simon Fraser University studying in the Faculty of Business Administration majoring in Information Management Systems.

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