Applying the mental model for real-time recognition of Thai banknotes: The blinds' mobile application

Abstract

This study examines the blind users' experiences of Thai banknotes recognition to develop mobile application for them. The investigation is based on the mental model to find out how their cognitive idea related to usability concerns of the application. To conduct the study, the blind students and teachers at the blind school in Hatyai, Songkla Thailand were recruited as participants. In general, they were various in age and having different experiences with smartphones and mobile applications. The mental model for the blinds' mobile application revealed the usability matters as useful, easy and availability for the outcome of this study. The blinds' mobile application is preferred to be simple rather than complex. For example, the application features should be automatic like the feature of barcode reader application, which can scan banknotes and speak value voice in a real time. Based on the findings, the prototype of blinds' mobile application, for real-time recognition of Thai banknotes is developed.