Defining problems of practices to advance inclusive tactile media consumption and production

Abstract

Tactile media are important resources for people who are blind or have low vision (BLV) to access visual or graphical information as well as to develop tactile acuity. In this paper we present findings from a social learning design that was guided by the question, “What are the factors or issues that impact the tactile media consumption and production practices of BLV and other invested stakeholders?” From data collected during three Tactile Arts and Graphics Symposia-that gathered (N=64) BLV and sighted practitioners, researchers, and educators invested making information and experiences accessible through touch-we identified 34 issues that fall under four problems of practice, that impact tactile media practices. Based on these four problems of practice (and 34 underlying issues), we share recommendations to support the development of socio-technical systems that improve tactile access to information and full inclusion of people who are BLV in tactile media consumption and production.