Relevant Paper Abstracts

Using Virtual Environment to Improve Spatial Perception
 by People Who Are Blind
ORLY LAHAV, Ph.D.

ABSTRACT
Mental mapping of spaces, and of the possible paths for navigating these spaces, is essential
for the development of efficient orientation and mobility skills. Visual ability is a crucial
component to effective mental mapping. People who are blind consequently find it difficult
to generate useful mental maps of spaces and navigate competently within them. The research studies reported in this paper assume that the supply of appropriate spatial information through compensatory sensorial channels as an alternative to the visual channel may
contribute to the anticipatory mental mapping of unknown spaces and consequently may improve spatial performance for people who are blind

Usability of a Multimodal Video Game to Improve Navigation Skills
for Blind Children
JAIME S´ ANCHEZ and MAURICIO SAENZ

This work presents an evaluative study on the usability of a haptic device together with a soundbased video game for the development and use of orientation and mobility (O&M) skills in closed,
unfamiliar spaces by blind, school-aged children. A usability evaluation was implemented for
a haptic device especially designed for this study (Digital Clock Carpet) and a 3D video game
(MOVA3D) in order to determine the degree to which the user accepted the device, and the level
of the user’s satisfaction regarding her interaction with these products for O&M purposes. In
addition, a cognitive evaluation was administered. The results show that both the haptic device
and the video game are usable, accepted and considered to be pleasant for use by blind children.
The results also show that they are ready to be used for cognitive learning purposes. Results
from a cognitive study demonstrated significant gains in tempo-spatial orientation skills of blind
children when navigating in unfamiliar spaces.



BATS: The Blind Audio Tactile Mapping System

ABSTRACT
The BATS project focuses on helping students with visual
impairments access and explore spatial information using
standard computer hardware and open source software. Our work
is largely based on prior techniques used in presenting maps to the
blind such as text-to-speech synthesis, auditory icons, and tactile
feedback. We add spatial sound to position auditory icons and
speech callouts in three dimensions, and use consumer-grade
haptic feedback devices to provide additional map information
through tactile vibrations and textures. Two prototypes have been
developed for use in educational settings and have undergone
minimal assessment. A system for public release and plans for
more rigorous evaluation are in development.