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

Summary of Findings -Phase I & II

The test results indicate that shape, form and textures on models of fish can be easily recognized and correlated with descriptive information about the fish and the habitat in which they live. The test data indicated a strong correlation between strong contrasts, such as smooth to textured, or fat to thin, and the ease with which elements are differentiated. In addition, the participants reported a strong preference for more robust forms, shapes and textures. Comments from the participants indicated a keen interest in verbal information associated with a tactile experience.

Fact Based Questions

Participants identified answers correctly an average of 8% more frequently when presented with full round models than with bas-relief models, and 12% more frequently than with raised line models. Participants answered correctly an average of 82% of the time for textures indicating patterns of fish coloration. 

Qualitative/ Preference Based Questions

Participants rated their enjoyment, ease of perceptual interpretation, and the strength and quality of their experience with full round models almost 33% higher than with bas-relief models and 50% higher than with raised line models. In addition, participants found that bas-relief and raised line models were more difficult to form a mental image from. With regard to textures, participants rated their enjoyment and perceptual interpretation higher for the more robust textures. The participants indicated a preference for more complex patterns such as random spots and wavy stripes. These patterns were considered more challenging but far more interesting. Conceptualizing subtle gradations of textures like countershading was found to be difficult. It should be noted that the data did not identify diabetic participants who might be less sensitive to touch.