Using Dynamic Audio Feedback to Support Peripersonal Reaching in Visually Impaired People

Blind children engage with their immediate environment much less than sighted children, particularly through self-initiated movement or exploration. Research has suggested that providing dynamic feedback about the environment and the child’s actions within/against it may help to encourage reaching activity and support spatial cognitive learning. This paper presents an initial study suggesting the accuracy of peripersonal reaching can be improved by the use of dynamic sound from both the objects to reach for and the reaching hand itself (via a worn speaker) that changes based on the proximity of the hand to the object. The demonstration will let attendees try the interaction and feedback designs. Categories and Subject Descriptors K.4.2 [Computers and Society]: Social Issues - Assistive technologies for persons with disabilities General Terms Design, Human Factors. Keywords Sound perception; reaching; visual impairment.

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2015
• Where: ASSETS
• Authors: Graham Wilson, Stephen A. Brewster
• Keywords: ASSETS 2015, Emerging Technology