TYPE
Research Project
COMPLETED
2021
OVERVIEW
Obtaining a strong understanding of what braille is and how to use it can help an individual excel in school, work, and their personal life. With rapid technological advancements, students are now turning to audio books and assistive technology to learn and complete assignments. This does not help with the retention and comprehension of braille reading and writing.
Given the importance of braille writing skills for blind and partially sighted individuals (BPSI), this research aims to introduce braille concepts and emphasize pre braille learning in the kindergarten classroom, regardless of whether students have sight or have sight loss.
Pre braille: Activities that work to develop fine motor skills (two-handed coordination, finger mobility and dexterity, etc.) and concept development.
I collaborated with kindergarten teachers and teachers of the visually impaired (TVI), located in the Greater Toronto Area and Niagara Region.
Together, we questioned:
Through co-creation (co-design sessions, prototyping and feedback), we created an activity system to help foster pre braille practice and introduce conversations about braille in the classroom.
Introducing braille to kindergarteners, students will:
The activity prompt system includes:
The pouch includes:
Each of the elements mentioned above, help students practice their pre braille actions, i.e., pincer and grasp, finger strength, and hand mobility.
VIEW