Exploring Assistive Technologies for Face-to-Face Help Between Blind and Sighted Strangers

Temel Kavramlar

The authors explore the use of assistive technologies to facilitate face-to-face help between blind and sighted individuals, focusing on reducing social barriers and improving collaboration.

Özet

The study investigates the effectiveness of two approaches - face-to-face requests and app-based volunteering platforms - in reducing social pressures for both blind and sighted individuals. Participants preferred the on-platform connection approach, which enhanced social acceptance and boosted confidence. The findings highlight the importance of facilitating safe matches, understanding each other's intentions, and providing precise corrections during collaboration.

İstatistikler

BLV participants expressed newfound confidence when using Person-Finder Glasses.
The Volunteer Platform reduced social pressure for both BLV and sighted participants.
Both parties expect the platform to establish safe matches.
BLV people want their helpers to be BLV-friendly and sometimes female.
Both parties want to connect with nearby people who have time.
Sighted helpers want visual examples of help support guidelines.
Sighted helpers want to empathize with BLV people's experience.

Alıntılar

"I think having a way to know with confidence that someone is there... it’s very comfortable." - P7B
"It gets embarrassing sometimes... I shout, 'Hey, where am I going?' And it turns out what I’m shouting at is a garbage can." - P3B

Önemli Bilgiler Şuradan Elde Edildi

Help Supporters

by Yuanyang Ten... : arxiv.org 03-14-2024

https://arxiv.org/pdf/2403.08221.pdf

Daha Derin Sorular

How can technology further enhance the connection phase between blind and sighted individuals?

In order to further enhance the connection phase between blind and sighted individuals, technology can play a crucial role in several ways:

Improved Matching Algorithms: Technology can utilize advanced algorithms to match BLV individuals with suitable sighted helpers based on factors such as proximity, availability, and expertise.

Real-Time Communication Tools: Incorporating real-time communication tools like video calls or instant messaging within assistive technologies can facilitate smoother interactions between BLV and sighted individuals.

Augmented Reality (AR) Features: AR features can provide additional contextual information about the environment to both parties, helping them navigate and communicate more effectively during the connection phase.

Voice Recognition and Natural Language Processing: Implementing voice recognition and natural language processing capabilities can assist BLV users in articulating their needs clearly while also aiding sighted helpers in understanding those needs accurately.

Community Building Platforms: Creating online platforms where BLV individuals and sighted volunteers can connect, share experiences, and build relationships before meeting in person can foster a sense of community and trust.

How are potential drawbacks of relying solely on app-based platforms for assistance?

While app-based platforms offer many benefits for connecting BLV individuals with sighted helpers, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

Digital Divide: Not all BLV individuals may have access to smartphones or be comfortable using app-based platforms, leading to exclusion from assistance opportunities.

Depersonalization of Assistance: Relying solely on apps may lead to a lack of personal interaction between BLV users and sighted helpers, potentially reducing the empathy and human connection that face-to-face interactions provide.

Technical Issues: App malfunctions or connectivity problems could hinder the effectiveness of assistance delivery through these platforms, causing delays or misunderstandings during help requests.

Privacy Concerns: Sharing personal information on an app platform raises privacy concerns for both BLV users and sighted volunteers regarding data security and confidentiality of interactions.

Limited Scope of Assistance: App-based platforms may not always cater to complex or nuanced assistance needs that require hands-on support or detailed guidance beyond what digital interfaces can provide.

How societal perceptions towards blindness be positively influenced through these assistive technologies?

Assistive technologies designed to support face-to-face help between blind (BLV) people and sighted strangers have the potential to positively influence societal perceptions towards blindness in several ways:
1Increased Awareness: By facilitating direct interactions between BLVs and sighted individuals,
assistive technologies can raise awareness about the challenges faced by
BLVs in navigating public spaces and promote empathy and understanding among the general public.
2Promoting Inclusivity: These technologies demonstrate that with the right support,
BLVs can participate fully in various aspects of life and contribute to society.
This can help break stereotypes and misconceptions about disabilities.
3Empowering Independence: Assistive technologies that facilitate connection between
BLVs and sighted strangers can boost the confidence of BLVs in seeking help when needed,
showcasing their self-reliance while also highlighting the importance of a supportive community.
4Changing Social Norms: Through regular interactions facilitated by these technologies,
attitudes towards disability may shift from pity or charity towards respect for diversity
and an appreciation for each individual's unique abilities.
5Encouraging Collaboration: By encouraging collaboration between BLVs and sighted
individuals on equal footing using assistive technologies,
these tools promote a culture of mutual respect,and cooperation rather than paternalism or dependency
These positive influences contribute to creating a more inclusive society where all members are valued for their contributions regardless of any disabilities they may have