A Bibliometric Study of Graphic Variables Used on Tactile Maps

Abstract

Abstract. Tactile maps are accessible for visually impaired people. Therefore, studies on the use of graphic variables in tactile cartography are necessary. A search for papers related to the keyword "tactile map" was conducted in the Scopus database and in the annals of the International Cartographic Conference, between the years 2009 and 2019, with the objective of identifying in the international literature the topics concerning to graphic variables, especially those related to color code systems. Among the full manuscripts found in the Scopus and International Cartographic Association databases, the countries with the largest number of publications in the tactile cartography field were Brazil, United States, Greece, Spain and Germany. The main topics related to tactile maps in the last 10 years were: visual impairment, navigation and wayfinding, perception, universal design, among others. Some of the papers suggest the representation of colors for colorblind people, but there is a gap regarding the use of color codes as graphic variables on tactile maps.

Evaluation of Qualitative Colour Palettes for Tactile Maps

“…Other than that, particular colours should recall the features being mapped, e.g., blue is almost always used to map hydrographic features. Although for congenitally blind individuals, colours are abstractions, people with adventitious blindness have visual memories of images from the past, allowing them to correctly interpret colours [13]. Besides, as stated by Kim et al [15], PVI share similar intuitions about colours to sighted people thanks to regular exposure to discussions about colours.…”

“…Effective colour palettes for tactile maps should incorporate saturated and contrasting colours, differing not only in hue but also in value [5,11]. The contrast between colours should be clear, prioritizing distinction over aesthetic appeal [12], and, if possible, tactile colour codes should be applied on [13]. But most importantly, colours must be distinguishable by the widest spectrum of individuals, including people with colour vision deficiency (CVD) and complete colour blindness as well as those with low vision, who have troubles with the perception of certain aspects of colours and their combinations [14].…”