Abstract

BORGES, Wanessa Ferreira  and  MENDES, Enicéia Gonçalves. Usability of Assistive Technology Applications by People with Low Vision. Rev. bras. educ. espec. [online]. 2018, vol.24, n.4, pp.483-500.  Epub Oct 01, 2018. ISSN 1980-5470.  https://doi.org/10.1590/s1413-65382418000500002.

The Assistive Technology (AT) devices are potentially beneficial for low visioned people. However, this public does not use them in the promotion of their functionality, due to the lack of knowledge, economic barriers and because these resources draw attention to the disability. At the same time, smartphone and tablet applications present themselves as new possibilities in AT and their use has become popular among people with low vision because they have fewer stigmatizing characteristics and are more economically viable compared to conventional resources. The present study aimed to identify and functionally characterize, from the point of view of users, smartphone and/or tablet applications that assume the function of AT resources and are being used by people with low vision. The study included 28 people with low vision who are already members of a chat group in the WhatsApp application. Data collection took place in the virtual space of this application, individually, through a semi-structured interview. The data were transcribed and organized into two categories of analysis: applications used and functionality. The participants cited 50 apps and 9 accessibility resources used in smartphones and tablets. Regarding functionality, the apps destined for access to textual content, being printed or digital, and others for everyday tasks, work, aesthetics and navigation (orientation and mobility) were highlighted. From this survey, it was possible to identify the potential of these applications in the solution of difficulties faced by people with low vision. Thus, more research, investments, dissemination and teaching programs to increase their use are suggested.

Keywords : Special education; Assistive Technology; Low vision; Applications.

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