200 Years of Braille
In our fast-paced, tech-driven world, you might wonder if braille is still relevant, 200 years after its inception. The answer is a resounding YES!
Braille remains a vital source of communication, learning, and independence and has evolved along with the rise of digital tools.
For the blind, Deafblind, and low-vision communities, braille is the key that unlocks a universe of information.
A Brief History of Braille
In 1824, Louis Braille created a reading and writing system that would revolutionize communication for the blind.
This innovative code, now known as braille, has endured for two centuries and is used globally in countless languages.
Through the use of raised tactile dots on a 2×3 grid called a braille cell, it provides a unique means of literacy and communication.
Each combination of dots represents a letter, number, word, punctuation, or symbol, allowing users to read by feeling these raised dots with their fingertips.
Why Braille Matters
Braille is primarily used by readers with sight loss.
Braille is more than just a way to read and write; it’s a gateway to literacy, independence, and inclusion.
For those who are blind, Deafblind, or have low vision, braille is an essential tool for accessing information, participating in society, and reaching their full potential.
Literacy is a fundamental human right, and braille literacy is a cornerstone of personal and societal development.
Read on to learn how braille truly unlocks independence for its users.
How Braille Unlocks Independence
Access to Information: Braille empowers individuals to access a vast array of information, from educational materials to everyday reading. By reading books, magazines, and newspapers in braille, people can expand their knowledge and understanding of the world.
Independence: Braille literacy facilitates independence. Through braille, people with sight loss can manage their own affairs, such as reading medication labels, cooking instructions, and financial documents, without relying on sighted support.
Educational Success: Braille proficiency is linked to higher academic achievement. Students who are proficient in braille are better equipped to engage with educational content, participate in classroom activities, and excel in exams.
Employment Opportunities: Braille skills can enhance employment prospects. Proficiency in braille opens doors to a wide range of career paths, from teaching to technology.
Braille in a Modern World
Braille is not a relic of the past; it’s a dynamic tool that continues to evolve and adapt to our changing world.
Its use in mainstream and popular culture demonstrates its ongoing relevance and accessibility.
Currency: Many countries have incorporated braille into their banknotes to assist in identifying different denominations. Canadian banknotes, for example, feature raised dots that make it easier to handle and identify different notes independently.
Educational Success: Braille proficiency is linked to higher academic achievement. Students who are proficient in braille are better equipped to engage with educational content, participate in classroom activities, and excel in exams.
Literature and Entertainment: Braille has found its way into literature and entertainment, making these mediums more inclusive. Popular books, magazines, and newspapers are often available in braille, ensuring that all readers can access the same information and enjoy the same stories. Additionally, some movie theaters offer braille programs and audio descriptions to enhance the movie-going experience.
As these examples show, braille is not stuck in the past; it is constantly evolving to keep pace with our changing world.
Braille and Tech
As technology continues to advance, so too does the role of braille.
The integration of braille into high-tech solutions is paving the way for greater accessibility and inclusion.
Refreshable Braille Displays: These devices convert digital text into braille, allowing users to access emails, websites, and e-books in braille. From computers to smartphones and tablets, refreshable braille displays are becoming increasingly portable, affordable, and functional.
Braille E-Readers: Similar to refreshable braille displays, braille e-readers provide access to digital books and documents. Designed to be lightweight and portable, these devices make it easy for users to carry their entire library with them. Innovations are making braille e-readers more user-friendly and accessible to a wider audience.
Smart Braille Devices and Other Technology: The development of smart devices has revolutionized how we all interact with technology. Smartwatches with braille displays allow users to receive notifications, check the time, and access apps. Beyond text, some smart braille devices also support tactile graphics. This feature enables users to feel diagrams, charts, and other visual elements, providing a richer and more comprehensive reading experience. Tactile graphics are particularly useful in educational settings, where they can help explain complex concepts in subjects like math and science.
The development of a new international eBraille standard (EBRF) is truly exciting.
This breakthrough will revolutionize braille by allowing braille text and tactile graphics to be read together in a single document.
With this new digital format for braille publications, users can easily navigate headings, paragraphs, tables, lists, and links.
Braille remains an essential tool in the digital age, providing a pathway to literacy, independence, and inclusion. Its presence in mainstream culture and its integration into high-tech solutions highlight its adaptability and relevance.
As we continue to advance technologically, it’s crucial that braille remains a vital part of our efforts to create a more inclusive world.
The Future of Braille is Bright
Our passion for braille at CNIB Beyond Print is clear.
After all, it’s a cornerstone of literacy, independence, and inclusion in this digital age.
Braille’s growing presence in society and its seamless fusion with technology paint a clear picture: braille is here to stay. This enduring tool ensures a more inclusive future, where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Ready to explore the power of braille? CNIB Beyond Print offers a variety of braille services, from transcribing books to creating accessible materials like labels, signage, menus, and even election ballots. Visit our braille portal to learn how we can help you unlock the world of braille.