[nfbwatlk] Perkins Braillers

[Frederick Driver]

Hi Mary Ellen,

Interesting question.

I'm no expert.  But I would certainly never denigrate the Perkins
brailler.  I know it has a very useful history, and I know that many
people still use it a lot and wouldn't be without it.

That said, it does look an ancient clunky old thing.  I suppose it could
be aesthecially redisnged, like they do new cars every year, without
changing its function and operation.

But, while recognizing the continuing utility of the Perkins, I feel that
new braille technology is not being fully exploited and adequately pushed.

I think the major thrust in technological research at present should be on
making refreshable braille, and computer-portable-and-transmittable
braille, more much affordable and widespread.

On perfecting the technology, on promoting awareness and use of it, and
most especially, on making the refreshable braille hardware more
affordable.

Which could be done in different ways.
Firstly, a political recognition of the basic right to braille literacy,
and political pressure to that end, in order to prompt more money to make
the technology available to more people.  And to promote awareness of it
and training in its use.
Secondly, given the cost and complexity of the technology, with all those
solenoids hopping up and down, how about only six cell refreshable
braille?  I'm told they have eight now.  But six would cover pretty much
everything most people want to do, and presumably reduce the cost of
production and maintenance.  Eight could still be a more expensive option
available to those who need it.
Thirdly, improving the solenoid technology to make it simpler and cheaper.
And pursuing other technological alternatives to solenoids.  I know
certain things have been tried, so far without much success.  But I just
don't think the whole question is being pursued aggressively enough, given
its revolutionary potential.

I think this refreshable braille technology is the new revolution, whose
potential and importance has not been fully recognized and embraced yet.

It's the key to once and for all blowing out of the water the tired old
arguments against braille.  To making braille more widespread and
accessible and flexible and portable and fast and compact.

And in the long run, it just might be the answer to the braille literacy
crisis.

Thanks,

Rick


On Mon, 13 Sep 2010, Mary Ellen wrote:

> I'm writing to ask what may seem to be an absurd question.
>
> Is the Perkins Brailler still a useful piece of equipment?
>
> The Perkins is obviously used by blind people who don't have access to
> advanced Braille technology, but I'm particularly interested in the opinions
> of those who use computer assisted Braille.
>
> Though I have a Braille Lite and an embosser, I wouldn't want to give up my
> Perkins. Its role has changed for me over the years, but I still find it
> useful.
>
> The question has arisen because of an accommodation assessment I just read.
> The person doing the assessment described the Perkins as "akin to a 1950's
> Underwood." He clearly meant to indicate contempt for such an antiquated
> piece of machinery.
>
> Perhaps I'm merely demonstrating my advanced age and Luddite tendencies, but
> I cringe at the "If it don't have a computer chip, it ain't no good,"
> mentality.
>
> I would like to compile a list of ways in which tech savvy blind people
> still use the Perkins, as well as reasons why people have stopped using it.
>
> We're all familiar with "experts" who denigrate the slate and stylus. We've
> done a very good job of countering their arguments, though the "experts"
> still aren't listening very well. I believe it may be time for us to pull
> together information and information on best practice once again. If I'm
> right in believing the Perkins is still a useful tool, technology
> consultants need to know it in detail. If I'm wrong, then it's time for me
> to change my Luddite ways and "get with the program."
> Please e-mail me at gabias at telus.net with your views.
>
> Mary Ellen Gabias
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