[Nfbv-announce] Save the date for Haptic Communication

[Michael Kasey]

The Virginia Association of the DeafBlind is bringing something new to
Virginia!

"Empowerment Through Touch: Haptic Communication Workshop"

WHERE: Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind, 

Staunton, Virginia

DATE: Saturday, October 17, 2015

TIME: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Registration starts at 8:00 AM

 

What is haptic?

Haptic communication allows an individual to have more control over their
environment by having access to visual and environmental information in real
time.  Haptic communication is less time consuming and more discrete
compared to ordinary description with sign or speech.  By using haptic
signals it is possible to attend any event and get a description of what is
happening in the room.  Basically it is signals drawn on the consumers back
or leg, and will not interfere with their use of sign language interpreter,
but it will help them access the environment. 

This method was developed by two Norwegians in the 1980s, one who was
deafblind. They went on to form the company Haptico. This method is widely
used in several European countries.

Helen Keller National Center worked with Haptico to develop an American
Standard for haptic. They have trained trainers who go out and teach this
method.  North Carolina has been using this method since 2006.  Haptic can
be used by the blind, deaf and deafblind consumers.

This workshop is an introduction to a wonderful, useful, non-verbal
communications tool!

Flyers with registration will be coming soon! For more information email
Valerie Luther at valuther at vcu.edu

 

 

 

The National Federation of the Blind knows that blindness is not the
characteristic that defines you or your future. Every day we raise the
expectations of blind people, because low expectations create obstacles
between blind people and our dreams. You can live the life you want;
blindness is not what holds you back.