Assistive Tool 2, Braille

 

Assistive tool 2

Braille

Braille is a special way of reading and writing invented by Louis Braille in 1824 and it is used by people who are blind or have very poor eyesight. Instead of seeing letters or numbers with their eyes, they feel small raised dots with their fingers. These dots are arranged in little blocks called cells, with up to six dots in each cell. Each pattern of dots stands for a letter, number, or punctuation mark. For students with special educational needs (SEN), especially those with serious vision problems, Braille is an important tool. It helps them read books, write, and learn independently.

There are different ways to use braille and one way is to write it by hand using special tools, a slate and a stylus. The slate is like a small frame with holes, and the stylus is a pointed tool used to press dots into paper. Another way is with a Perkins Brallier, a mechanical device that quickly punches Braille dots on paper, kind of like a typewriter for Braille. Nowadays, there are also electronic devices like refreshable Braille displays and Braille notetakers. These connect to computers or tablets and instantly change the text on the screen into Braille dots you can feel, making it easier to read digital information.

We need special paper for Braille as normal papers are not the one used in braille

Unlike thin paper for writing our works, regular paper is too thin and delicate as it tears or the dots get flattened. Braille paper is thicker and stronger so the dots stay raised and easy to feel. It usually has a thicker surface so our fingers don’t slip. This special paper comes in different sizes but is generally bigger and sturdier than normal paper. Using the right paper is important because it keeps the Braille dots clear and readable for a long time.

We use braille because it helps with reading and writing as braille gives blind students a way to learn language and become literate. It encourages independence as they can read books, take notes, and write without needing someone’s help. It supports learning as braille books and materials make it possible to study many subjects like math, science, and languages. It also improves communication as braille allows people to write letters, make lists, and communicate in writing.

It is used in many places as we can find Braille on signs, labels, menus, and in electronic devices, making everyday life easier.

Some of the challenges in using Braille is that not everything is available in Braille as many books or materials, especially new or rare ones, don’t have Braille versions. Braille books are big and heavy and they take up more space and can be harder to carry around than regular books. Learning braille takes time as it’s not easy to learn at first and requires practice and good teaching. Equipment can be expensive as Braille printers and electronic devices cost a lot, which can be a problem for schools or individuals. Also, not everyone uses braille as some blind people prefer listening to audiobooks or using screen readers instead.

How to Teach and Learn Braille in school. 

For students with special needs, it’s best to start with simple, hands-on activities to help them feel and recognize Braille dots. Teachers and support staff play a big role in guiding students, showing them how to write and read Braille properly. As students get better, they can begin using electronic Braille devices, which make learning more flexible and fun. Schools should have Braille books, worksheets, and writing tools ready. Teachers need to understand how to support each student’s progress with Braille. When children learn Braille well, they gain confidence and independence because they can access information just like their sighted classmates.

All in all, braille is one of the most important assistive tool a teacher can use to promote inclusion among individuals.

                                                          References for my assistive tool

American Foundation for the Blind. (2020). Braille literacy: A vital tool for literacy and independence. https://www.afb.org/blindness-and-low-vision/braille

Borg, J., Larsson, S., & Östergren, P. O. (2011). Assistive technology for students with disabilities: A systematic review. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 6(4), 257–270. https://doi.org/10.3109/17483107.2011.565870

Braille Authority of North America. (2019). Braille basics. https://www.brailleauthority.org/braillebasics.html

Koenig, A. J., & Holbrook, M. C. (2010). Foundations of education: Instructional strategies for teaching children and youths with visual impairments (3rd ed.). American Foundation for the Blind.

Lahm, E. A. (2008). The role of assistive technology in literacy development for students with visual impairments. Journal of Visual Impairment & Blindness, 102(3), 155–166. https://doi.org/10.1177/0145482X0810200306