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CONTENTS

Section 1:
Introduction

Section 2:
Strategies

Section 3:
The Law

Section 4:
Rights and Responsibilities

Section 5: Code
of Practice

Section 6:
Who can Assist?

Appendix A:
Examples

Appendix B: Appropriate
Language and Behaviour

Appendix C:
Fact Sheets

Bibliography

References

Tasmanian Organisations

Acknowledge-
ments

 

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This Fact Sheet is available in PDF Format. To Access and download this version click here.

 

Brief Description:

Braille is an embossed language which enables a person to read and write through a touch system in which raised dots represent letters of the alphabet. The basic Braille cell consists of an arrangement of six dots. By arranging the dots in various combinations, 63 different patterns are possible. Three grades of Braille currently exist.

Who can it assist?

    • students who are blind and are users of Braille

 Inclusive Teaching Practice

Considerations ...

  • Students using a Braille system will require more time to edit, peruse and browse a document.

The student using a Braille system may require access to:

    • a personal computer
    • a printer
    • power points
    • additional space for their Braille equipment

You can assist your student by:

  • permitting additional time for the completion of tasks/assignments
  • providing all written materials (ie reading lists, handouts, assignments etc.) well in advance to enable time for the information to be transcribed. Some transcription services (eg. textbooks) may take 8 weeks or longer to complete
  • providing the student with information materials on computer disk

Inclusive Technology

  • There are a range of Braille input and output systems available. Some are mechanical whilst others are computer based technology and include:
    •
    • Braille Note Takers/Writers
      • often these systems support speech synthesisers enabling the user a choice to review documents by audio output
      • are also compatible with many Braille and ink printers, making it quite simple to convert Braille documents into printed text
    • Braille Printers (also known as embossers)
      • Utilise pins to emboss Braille dots on special heavyweight paper.
      • Most Braille printers can be easily attached through standard serial ports to personal computers.
    • Braille Translation Software & Hardware
      •
      • Enable students working with desktop personal computers, including networked systems, to translate printed documents into Braille.
      • Braille translation software programs convert standard ASCI text files into Grade 2 Braille. Many programs are available for both IBM and compatible’s and Macintosh computers.
        •

Inclusive Practice Example

Robert, who has been blind since birth, studies Law at University and completes his written examinations and assignments in the following way: Robert’s lecturer provides written information to him on computer disk. Robert then listens to the information using his computer which has voice synthesis software, prepares his answers and assignments in Braille and then converts the material to text. He then presents his work to his lecturer on disk or as printed copy.

Further Information and assistance can be obtained from:

Disability Advisers/Disability Liaison Officers (see Fact Sheet section 6 for contact details)

ACCESS & Equity Project of Northern Group Training Tasmania Ph. 6334 2266

Independent Living Centre Tasmania Ph. 6334 5899

Royal Guide Dogs for the Blind Society Tasmania Ph. 6232 1222

Useful information and links can be found at the following website.

Technical Access Liaison Group (TALG)
http://ariel.ucs.unimelb.edu.au/~heyes/talg.html

 

Introduction | Strategies for Inclusive Practice | What The Law Says | Legislative Requirements | Rights and Responsibilities | Code of Practice | Who Can Assist? | Examples of Inclusive Practice | Appropriate Language and Behaviour | Index to Fact Sheet Series | Bibliography | Recommended References | Tasmanian Organisations | Acknowledgements