Exploring the ability of subjects to make accurate discriminations by active touch, two studies involving 20 sighted adults investigated sensitivity of the fingertip in perceiving length, using Braille cells as stimuli. Results indicated differential sensitivity of the fingertip to one parameter of active touch: cell height discrimination. (JW)

The article discusses the increased demands for braille textbooks that match print versions in quality of format and graphics. One solution is to improve the quality of transcriptions produced by computer. The author reviews current limitations of computerized braille transcriptions and points out the existing potential for improvements.…

Materials are suggested for facilitating braille reading readiness of blind children. Four critical areas are addressed and materials offered for each: auditory discrimination, tactual discrimination, language development, and concept development. (CL)

The author provides step-by-step instructions for using the Cranmer Modified Perkins Brailler, Apple Microcomputer, and Versa Braille. (CL)

Twenty-four braille readers (grades 4-12) performed a line-tracking task on tactile line graphs which differed in the type of raised line used to represent the data curves and natures of the display backgrounds. Grids impaired the trackability of every line tested, while line type and grade level had only marginal effects. (Author/CL)

The VersaBraille System, which incorporates cassettes with braille, has been successfully implemented in the San Diego Unified School District. Preliminary results indicate that the system promoted reading and writing rates and was more easily and quietly operated than the mechanical brailler. Users rated the system positively. (Author/CL)

The National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS) has undertaken an extensive evaluation of the cassette-braille concept to determine braille reader acceptance of the concept, in addition to possible technical refinements and cost reductions. Approximately 80 braille readers from four cities were selected as volunteer…

The article reviews four operative braille production systems for use by the visually impaired that will cut costs. The four are manual, semiautomated, automated, and electromagnetic cassette. (PHR)

A review of the research into the possibilities of increasing the braille reading rate, including changing the ability of braille readers, changing the way in which braille characters are displayed, and changing the braille code, is presented. It is concluded that changing the perceptual ability of the braille reader is the most promising…

Ten "myths" about the Unified Braille Code (UBC) are debunked in this article. Myths address the official adoption of UBC, changes in literary Braille, input from users in determining the UBC's final form, the UBC and technical uses, the UBC and computer Braille translation, and continued availability of materials in current codes. (DB)

This article reports on a national survey and follow-up interviews with vision-support teachers. The study related to pupils in mainstream schools who are identified as able to read large print but also need to learn braille to increase access to the curriculum. The aim of the survey was to elicit information about the diversity of the group and…

Ten visually impaired students (12-18 years old) were instructed via a two-module instructional kit to use microcomputers and to learn the programing language, BASIC. Results indicated that the visually impaired students learned the major components of the microcomputer and were able to use the cassette braille access device. (CL)

The effects of using an electric Perkins Brailler (EPB) on the braille writing rate and accuracy of 10 blind students (6-21 years old) were examined by comparing writing samples obtained with the regular and electric Perkins Braillers. No statistically significant differences were found but students commented favorable on the EPB. (Author/CL)

Discusses the Children's Braille Book-of-the-Month Club, a project of the National Braille Press, Inc., of Boston, Massachusetts. Provides membership information. (FL)

In three experiments, sighted college students tried to learn the names of the first 10 symbols of the braille alphabet. In Experiments 1 and 2, visual examination of the symbols enhanced learning. In Experiment 3, similar results were obtained when standard size braille symbols were used during the study trials. (Author)