Understanding Spatial Pattern Cognition from Tactile Maps and Graphics

Abstract

This article explores the cognitive dimensions of spatial pattern identification in people who are blind or low vision using tactile graphics. We contend that spatial pattern identification is critical to the construction of an informative and rich environmental image, and insight into these cognitive skills can inform current practices in tactile map production and accessible cartography. This research investigates individual spatial thinking skills hypothesized to be components of spatial pattern identification. The findings suggest that Cartesian proximity and object differentiation are vital cognitive skills of spatial pattern identification and could potentially be exploited to communicate complex environmental knowledge in tactile reference maps. The relationship between prior map-reading training and test performance indicates a critical need for an increased presence of tactile cartographies and highlights future research opportunities.

Tactile cartography in the digital age: A review and research agenda

“…We do know that being B/VI has no bearing on one's ability to cognitively process spatial information or perform spatial tasks (Caddeo et al, 2006;Lahav and Mioduser, 2008). That said, reading a tactile map is a much more cognitively intensive task than reading a visual map due to the need for constant referencing and orientation via touch (Ducasse et al, 2018;Perdue and Lobben, 2016), a task made even more difficult by the lack of a standardized symbol set. Digital tactile maps do have the capacity to reduce cognitive load by incorporating highfidelity media such as audio information (Bardot et al, 2016;Götzelmann, 2018), reducing the need to memorize symbols and labels, and so on.…”

“…Tactile mapping research has avoided this trap better than many other fields, but we should not lose sight of the fact that there is still much work to be done with low-tech tactile mapping solutions. Strickfaden and Vildieu (2014), Perdue and Lobben (2016), Vondrakova et al (2019), andRahardjo et al (2019) have all conducted research that does not specifically evaluate the use of any sort of software or digital platform, yet still provide much-needed insights into how tactile maps work. Given that any sort of widely disseminated accessible document (e.g.…”

Understanding Data Selection in Tactile Mapping: An Inclusive Design Approach

“…There is also literature on wayfinding and navigating without the use of vision (Almeida et al, 2015;Jacobson, 1998), as well as abundant research into the cognitive maps and spatial abilities of blind and low vision individuals Perdue & Lobben, 2016;Picard and Pry, 2009;Siekierska et al, 2003;Spencer et al, 1992;Ungar et al, 1995Ungar et al, , 1997.…”

“…Blind and low vision children therefore are disadvantaged in comparison to sighted children as they lack the exposure to maps and cartographic products from a young age. Research has determined that this lack of exposure impacts a blind or low vision child's spatial ability (Higgins, 1999;Perdue & Lobben, 2016).…”

“…The low number of participants and/or lack of experienced users with extensive knowledge of tactile maps may have impacted results. There is a lack of exposure to maps and cartographic products within the blind and low vision community and it can be difficult to locate experienced users from within a small target participant group (Higgins, 1999;Perdue & Lobben, 2016). Alternatively, it is possible that due to self-selection, experienced tactile map users were not keen to participate.…”