Spatial navigation in everyday life of the blind – a participatory research Cover Image

Prostorová navigace v každodenním životě nevidomých – participační výzkum
Spatial navigation in everyday life of the blind – a participatory research

Author(s): Jan Vystrčil, Zdeněk Míkovec, Jakub Franc
Subject(s): Psychology
Published by: Univerzita Karlova v Praze, Nakladatelství Karolinum
Keywords: Spatial navigation; The Blind; Assistive technologies; Accessibility; Interdisciplinary cooperation; Participatory design

Summary/Abstract: The text introduces a qualitative research study focused on independent movement of the blind within city surroundings. The research was conducted on the basis of interdisciplinary cooperation in the field of HCI (Human Computer Interaction). Its aim was to gain precise functional users’ requirements on the navigation system which the authors are currently creating. The results derived from 32 semistructured interviews emphasize a crucial impact of independent movement of the blind on their quality of life. They further bring information on coping strategies connected with receiving help from others. They also present strategies and orientation clues used in the process of movement within city surroundings, navigation aids, and other sources of support. The authors conclude with particular requests on functionality and users’ interface of the navigation system, which is just being developed.

  • Issue Year: 2014
  • Issue No: 3-4
  • Page Range: 47-58
  • Page Count: 12
  • Language: Czech