[NFB-Science] How do I best deal with making graphs and using scientific instruments in my environmental science class?

[Tina Hansen]

I thought I'd offer another tip, for what it's worth.

One big challenge I know many students encounter with graphs is a way to interpret the data. Braille labels, by necessity, can only say so much. If you're needing context and details, you'd need to use another piece of paper for that.

I'm especially interested in how to make a graph multi-sensory, combining text with audio.

The idea of using pipe cleaners or other low-tech material could, for instance, be combined with an audio label for context. Anyone who has used a voice labeler might find it valuable in this area. Here, I think of the Pen Friend which I believe the Independence Market sells.

There is, however, one big drawback. If you don't have any wired headset, you can't use it.

On the more high-tech end, the tools from View Plus are good for multi-sensory communication of data, but I think you need a computer both to create and interpret the graph. If I'm wrong, please correct me.

One thing I'm interested in seeing is the idea of using a talet along with a graph creation app. Unfortunately, nune of the tablets have haptic feedback on their own, at least, none from Apple I elieve the Android tablets have some haptic feedback, but it's a bit limited. Whatever access tools are on the tablet give the context, so long as it's built into the graph.

In an ideal world, I think there ought to be a way to combine some of the simplicity and creativity of the low-tech methods of graph creation with high tech to help with data and context. What if there was a way, through a smart phone app, to build a tool that could allow you to explore a graph in depth. What if the tool could offer haptic feedback, but the smart phone would, through an app, provice context and voice and/or other types of audible feedback. As a bonus, if you have a good Bluetooth speaker or headset, you'd be able to get a sonic feel for a graph that moves from left to right.

Maybe someone can create a tool like that. A tool may already be on the market, but if it isn't, I wonder if it's time to create it.

Just some thoughts, for what it's worth. Thanks.