Hand techniques in reading braille; synthesis of spatial and verbal elements of reading

Abstract

The use of hands and fingers when reading braille shows many individual differences, leading research workers to investigate why this is so, and which factors would lead to successful reading at an economic rate. A brief description of major differences between visual and tactual reading is followed by early research findings. A major breakthrough in beginning to understand the sense of touch by Gibson led to an increased interest in touch perception as it applies to braille reading. Microanalysis at 1/100 seconds by Millar gave information concerning beginning and slow readers, an answer to the debate on which hand is best for braille, and the spatial and verbal functions of the two hands in braille reading. The final section suggests applications of these findings in the learning situation.