Navigational audio games: An effective approach toward improving spatial contextual learning for blind people

Abstract

For people who suffer from a visual impairment, navigating in an unknown environment represents a considerable challenge. To help them develop spatial orientation and mobility skills, researchers have employed audio-based computer games as a practical, interactive and user-centered learning approach. The highly immersive and attractive nature of audio games enables blind people to create a spatial representation of their environment that can be assigned to aid performing real-life navigation tasks. This paper reviews the most notable navigational audio-based games in terms of their conceptual and technological approach, accessibility and user interaction efficiency.