Braille at 200: The Role Of Technology In The Future Of Braille

Today on the show, we continue celebrating the 200th anniversary of Braille, discussing its evolution, relevance, and the innovations in Braille technology. Joining Steven today is Stuart Lawlor, an expert in assistive technology who works at the UK’s Sight and Sound Technology, and Gregory Hargraves from Paige Braille, who has created an innovative way to turn at Perkins braille machine into a keyboard that can be connected to a computer. The guests both emphasize the importance of Braille literacy, the role of sighted allies in advocacy, and the challenges faced in developing affordable multi-line Braille displays. They also explore the personal significance of Braille from each their blind and sighted perspectives, the debate surrounding Braille literacy, and the need for updated research on Braille usage in modern society. The chat also delves into the multifaceted world of Braille technology, discussing the essential toolkit for visually impaired individuals, the challenges surrounding Braille technology and costs, and the impact of devices like the Hable One. The speakers explore the barriers to learning Braille, the evolution of Braille devices, and the potential effects of tariffs on assistive technology. Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us [email protected] or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Celebrating 200 Years of Braille Technology 01:54 The Evolution and Relevance of Braille 06:06 The Importance of Sighted Allies in Braille Advocacy 07:57 Challenges in Multi-Line Braille Displays 12:12 Braille and Literacy: A Personal Perspective 14:08 The Debate on Braille Literacy 17:55 Research and the Future of Braille 19:49 The Global Perspective on Braille Usage 30:29 Challenges in Braille Technology and Costs 31:57 Hable One: A Game Changer in Braille Technology 39:34 The Evolution of Braille Devices and Future Prospects 51:46 The Impact of Tariffs on Assistive Technology