When working with graphs, the braille reader must read and interpret tactile drawings of graphs. This reading process is completely different from reading a visual graph. When reading tactile images, the braille reader must study the graph bit by bit and form a mental picture of the graph based on this. This way of reading makes it much harder to spot the graph and see how it evolves in the coordinate system.
Tactile reading skills are of great importance for the braille reader to learn about graphs. The braille reader must first learn proper skills on how to read and comprehend tactile drawings in general before fully utilizing tactile graphs. Therefore, we present an introduction to working with tactile drawings.
Verbal Description
Before the braille reader starts to explore a tactile drawing, provide a brief verbal description of it. For most braille readers, this initial overview is essential. Recognizing the different parts becomes easier when the student has prior knowledge of what to expect.
Hand Movements
The braille reader should begin exploring a tactile drawing by moving both palms over the entire image area. This provides an overview of its content. For example, starting at the top of the sheet and systematically moving both hands downward gives a full sense of the layout. To teach effective use of both hands, the student may place their hands on top of the instructor’s hands while exploring the drawing.
Once the braille reader has an overview, they can begin to investigate the details. Now, they should use their fingertips to distinguish different textures and to read numbers, symbols and text in braille.
Differentiate Different Tactile Structures
The experience is that many braille readers are not trained to talk about different tactile structures in the same way that sighted students can talk about different colors and appearances. When practicing the distinction between different tactile structures, the braille reader should also practice using terms to describe them. For instance, terms such as solid lines, dashed lines, and dotted lines can be used. This practice will be valuable when applying knowledge of various structures to extract information from a tactile graph.
Uniform Design
To make it easier for the braille reader to read tactile drawings, the design should be as uniform as possible. If the layout is familiar, the reader can more quickly identify the various parts.
Preparation Before the Lesson
Even with training in reading tactile drawings, a braille reader will always require time to study new ones. To follow the lesson alongside classmates, it is essential to become familiar with the tactile drawing before the lesson.
Limit the Number of Images
As it takes time and energy to read tactile images, you should always limit the number of images and select those that are suitable for the braille reader. Plan for this together with the math teacher.