AutOMathic blocks usability testing phase one

Abstract

The AutOMathic Blocks [1] system has been designed to help young blind students learn arithmetic and beginning algebra through the use of tactile [2, 3] blocks that display their work in two-dimensional space. The traditional method of presenting math problem presentation uses special Braille-like codes that present information in a linear form. It is our hypothesis that learning math via a two-dimensional method will expedite and improve the learning experience for young children. Before upgrading our prototype system, we have chosen to first carry out usability testing experiments testing the advantage of using tactile two-dimensional presentation methods. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.