Article

This paper reports on research aimed at advancing understanding haptic
capability and needs of users with low vision. The objective is to apply this
understanding to the design of haptic-incorporated user interfaces. METHOD: Study
1 investigated the haptic perception between sighted participants and those with
low vision through the magnitude estimation technique, and Study 2 explored the
degree to which similar user interface needs were observed among the two vision
groups. RESULTS: Overall, our findings indicate there was no significant
difference between the two vision groups in terms of haptic perception and user
interface needs. A few differences in user interface preference did exist,
however, and designers should take these into account. CONCLUSIONS: Participants
with low vision were a group who relied on their vision in everyday life instead
of touch. Thus, their haptic capability was less likely to be enhanced via brain
plasticity, which probably contributed to no significant difference in
haptic-incorporated user interface needs. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION: No
significant different haptic capability and haptic user interface (UI) needs
exists between cited participants and those with low vision. UI designers should
take into consideration that a certain range of magnitude/type of haptic feedback
is available to accommodate preferences of both vision groups, which would
ultimately increase the likelihood of successfully developing universal designs.

Langue : ANGLAIS