Braille and tactile technologies
What are they?
These devices and systems produce Braille for embossing, or generate tactile graphics which can be read by people who have learnt to read in this way.
Students may use this system in the form of a Braille note-taking device with a QWERTY or Braille keyboard, or as specialist software on a computer that translates text to Braille.
You may be asked to provide Braille versions of text documents such as handouts or instructions. These can be printed by embossers, which vary in size and the way in which they produce Braille. Some are able to produce pictures with raised dots as well as text.
Refreshable Braille displays may be seen on note-taking devices or as an addition to the normal keyboard on a desktop or laptop computer. These provide the user with a series of pins laid out in Braille cells, and change as the text is read from the note taker or computer screen.
Tactile diagrams, maps and graphs can be produced in ‘toasters’ that heat a special paper, causing the lines that outline and mark out important elements to swell. It is also possible to make hand-drawn tactile diagrams by using semi-transparent plastic sheet and a biro to produce raised lines.
How are they used?
Braille note takers may offer speech feedback with or without the Braille display and are used wherever students need to take notes. They can also be used as organisers, address books and word processors.
Any text can be adapted to suit Braille translation by someone who understands the systems used. Digitised (electronic) text can be translated into Braille as long as it is accessible and well structured.
Good tactile diagrams are not easy to make and complex graphics should be professionally converted to tactile format. When making them yourself, focus on the essential point of the graphic and include good labelling and text descriptions. Lines should be at least 2mm apart and shapes should be filled. Give a verbal explanation to provide contextual support.
Any issues to be aware of?
Be sure to investigate the type of Braille documentation the student would like to receive as there are several different Braille codes in use. Different countries have different variations of Braille.
Braille should be produced on heavy quality paper that will hold the impression of the dots longer.
Small note-taking devices are audible in use (so the user knows the text has been accepted), which can be annoying for some in lectures.
One page of printed material can equate to two or three Braille pages, depending on the layout, so you may need extra storage space for Braille versions of your documents.