Orientation and Mobility Training Using a Tactile Map: Child With Visual Impairments

Abstract

In the present study, 10 adults with visual impairments who usually used routes with special guidance for people with visual impairments were asked to walk on a route without such guidance while using a white cane. They then completed a preliminary questionnaire about information that they had needed when they were walking. Using a tactile map with this information, a 9-year-old girl who was visual impaired received orientation and mobility training on pedestrian skills using a white cane. Before the training, the pedestrian skills required were analyzed. The training was given in a study room with an aisle for walking. The study room simulated a real scene. A tactile map was used, and the girl was instructed in how to obtain environmental information necessary for walking with the white cane. Generalization to an actual setting was evaluated. The results showed that tactile map learning using information on the route, in addition to orientation and mobility training in the actual place, were useful for teaching the participant to walk with a white cane. Difficulties were found in the mobility environment (for example, problems with orientation when moving) when she was acquiring the skill of using a white cane when walking.