Do You Know? Latest Technology That’s Difficult for Visually Impaired People

Hello, elementary and middle school students around the world! I teach barrier-free(accessible) classes to students in Japan. I’m writing this article to share information about barrier-free(accessible) situations in Japan with you overseas. I hope this information about barrier-free(accessible) design in Japan will inspire you to think about accessibility in your own country!

Today, let’s learn about barrier-free(accessible) design in a fun way. Barrier-free(accessible) design means creating environments and products that everyone can use easily. In particular, we’ll learn about challenges faced by people with visual impairments through a quiz format.

First, let’s briefly explain visual impairment. Visual impairment refers to conditions where people have difficulty seeing or cannot see at all. People with visual impairments use their sense of touch and hearing to navigate daily life.

Now, let’s try a quiz!

Barrier-Free(Accessible) Quiz

Question: [　　] type switches are considered difficult to understand and undesirable for visually impaired people. What word fits in the [　　]?

…So, do you know the answer?

Answer: Touch panel

Explanation

Touch panel switches are considered difficult to understand and undesirable for visually impaired people. This is because touch panels primarily rely on visual operation.

For people with visual impairments, it’s difficult to know where buttons are on the screen, making operation challenging. Unlike physical buttons, they can’t feel the position of the buttons, which leads to usability issues.

Challenges and Possibilities of Touch Panels

While touch panels certainly have challenges, they also hold many possibilities. For example, they allow for free button layouts, so screens can be customized for each user. Also, advancements are being made to allow operation without relying on vision, such as using voice guidance.

With such innovations, touch panels can potentially become technology that everyone can use easily. The important thing is to consider various people’s perspectives when developing new technology.

Global Barrier-Free(Accessible) Situation

Many countries around the world recognize the importance of barrier-free(accessible) design. For example, the United Nations’ “Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities” aims to create a society where people with disabilities can live equally with others.

Regarding touch panel technology, many countries recognize it as a challenge and are working on improvements. For example, various innovations are being made, such as adding voice guidance and tactile feedback functions.

How About in Your Country?

What kind of considerations are made for people with visual impairments in your country? For example, think about the following:

How do ticket vending machines at stations or ATMs operate?
Are there support functions for people with visual impairments?
What considerations are made in schools and public facilities?

Try discussing the barrier-free(accessible) situation around you with your family and teachers.

What You Can Do to Realize a Barrier-Free(Accessible) Society

Notice the diversity of people around you: Understand that everyone is different and has different characteristics and needs.
Have a caring heart: If you see someone in trouble, speak to them or offer help.
Use barrier-free(accessible) facilities carefully: For example, don’t place objects on tactile paving, ensure multi-purpose toilets are available for those who need them, etc.
Discuss with family and friends: Share what you’ve learned about barrier-free(accessible) design with those around you.

Barrier-Free(Accessible) Exploration Team

Now, there are probably many touch panel devices in your town too. For example, ticket vending machines at stations, elevator buttons, ATMs, etc. Let’s observe whether these devices are easy to use for people with visual impairments.

Is there voice guidance?
Is there Braille guidance?
Are physical buttons used in combination with touch panels?

Pay attention to these points and explore the barrier-free(accessible) situation in your town. If you find points that could be improved, you might want to consult with your family and teachers and make suggestions to your local city hall.

Your “awareness” can be the first step in creating a society where everyone can live comfortably.

Important Request to Everyone

This article is based on experiences and ideas from Japan. Barrier-free(accessible) initiatives and ideas may differ depending on the country and culture. Please discuss with your family and teachers about how things are in your country. Let’s think about a world where everyone can live comfortably while respecting our differences. This is not meant to force Japanese ideas or my ideas on you. Also, always prioritize safety and act with trusted adults. Please keep this in mind.

Also, this article simplifies explanations with the main purpose of generating interest in barrier-free(accessible) design rather than ensuring accuracy. For accurate information, please check the websites of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (Japan) or relevant agencies in other countries.

For inquiries → https://lahainars.com/contact/

Note: I’m not very good at English, so please inquire with simple and short English sentences.