Exhibit Design Relating to Low Vision and Blindness Summary Report: Research on Effective Use of Tactile Exhibits with Touch Activated Audio Description for the Blind and Low Vision Audience

Phase I –Shape and Form

The test procedure and purpose of the study was introduced to each participant using a standardized verbal description. This introduction included a discussion of the natural variety of fish species and described the ways in which the body form and shape of each variety is related to their specific habitat and feeding characteristics. The three types of representation (raised line, bas relief, and full round) used in the testing were introduced using sample models of a pear. The participants were allowed to take as long as they wanted to explore the three different models of the pear until they felt they understood the distinction between the three model forms. The participants were encouraged to ask any questions they might have at any time during the testing.

Participants were then introduced to five fish species that were each modeled in each of the three styles of representation. Each of the five fish species represented a different specific body shape and form that related to their particular habitat and feeding characteristics.