Basic Identity Tags (BITs) in Tactile Perception of 2D shape

Abstract

Effective design of tactile graphics in education of the blind and visually impaired has long been debated by researchers, particularly whether pictorial sources are required. This work demonstrates that users of tactile graphics recognize distinctive abstract features (as the authors call them, 'basic identity tags' or BITs), to differentiate, identify and remember embossed 2D shapes. A series of experiments which were conducted in New Delhi, India and Indianapolis, USA have been discussed. Understanding BITs can expand strategies for the design of effective tactile graphics.