Some Comparisons of Characteristics of Alphabetic Codes for the Deaf-Blind

Abstract

Several alphabet codes for the deaf-blind were compared with respect to tactual discriminability and ease of code learning, utilizing subjects with normal vision and hearing. Results can suggest ways for improving codes used by the deaf-blind. Among raised-print codes (typically used for reading), Braille was found to be difficult both to learn and to discriminate tactually. The Moon code was found to be significantly less difficult than Braille. Although raised capital letters are difficult to recognize tactually, modifications of the letters can be made (NL code) that can make them much more easily recognized. Code size and direction of scan (vertical versus horizontal) were significant determinants of discriminability of raised-print symbols. Among hand-sent codes for person-to-person communication, hand-printed letters in the palm were well discriminated. For individuals with no experience with visual letter forms or who have trouble discriminating complex tactual symbols, a simple tactual finger code (T code) offers a solution. The T-code symbols are easy to discriminate and to learn.

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