Does the implementation of Braille have a positive effect upon social inclusion and autonomy, for visually impaired pupils?

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between learning Braille with social inclusion and levels of independence. It also aims to raise awareness for the importance of pre-Braille learning and appropriate support for all learners, specifically those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Participants range from children and young people (CYP) with visual impairments (VI) and/or SEND, to adults supporting learners with such difficulties.

Interviews were conducted with adult participants and a simplified questionnaire using a Likert scale questionnaire style approach was used with the CYP participants. The questionnaire was presented to participants with a selection of relatable faces to point to, indicating their level or agreement or disagreement. Alongside the empirical data gathered for this study, autoethnography was used to explore and provide an in-depth insight into the rationale and background for study, offering relevant and personal experience of living, learning, and teaching with a VI. An analysis of the findings demonstrates a link between implementing Braille from an early age and the impact upon levels of independence, as well as the positive effects upon social inclusion.

The research process also highlights the need for a tactile pre-Braille learning system, aimed at supporting early years learners and SEND learners facing difficulties with touch sensitivity and fine motor skills. The study introduces a new learning system called ‘PRIOR’, which takes a simplified and enlarged tactile shape approach of Braille letter dot formations, enabling learners to grasp letters shapes independently or with support and explore then in their own unique ways. A recommendation from this study is that further research be conducted into the effectiveness of using a tactile simplified Braille letter shape approach, and to what extend this system can aid learners into becoming future Braille users.