Hello! Researchers at the University of Victoria, Department of Computer Science, are conducting research to examine a new digital map prototype designed to help blind and low-vision users explore and understand unfamiliar environments through non-visual interaction on a touchscreen device. The software is meant to enable people pre-visit a place before actually going there. The goal is to understand how people use the system, what features are helpful, and how the tool can be improved to better support spatial learning.
If you meet the following criteria, we would love to hear and learn from you!
The study takes about 90 minutes. As a thank you for your time, we will provide an Amazon gift card or e-transfer of $40 CAD. It includes:
The study is conducted in-person in Victoria and Vancouver, BC, with possibilities extending to surrounding locations. Participants can choose the location that is most convenient for them.
Your participation will directly help improve non-visual digital map tools and contribute to research on accessible map technology. By sharing your experiences, you can help improve technologies that support blind and low-vision travellers in forming stronger mental spatial models of unfamiliar environments, enhancing both spatial understanding and independent mobility.
This project is titled “Evaluating Accessible Digital Map for Blind and Low-Vision People”
The researcher conducting this study is Yichun Zhao, a PhD student in the Department of Computer Science at the University of Victoria. This study is taking place under the supervision of Dr. Miguel Nacenta. The University of Victoria research ethics number for this study is 25-0617.
If you have any questions or would like to participate in this study, please contact me directly via email at yichunzhao@uvic.ca or call or text me at 236-882-5592. You are welcome to distribute this recruitment information to others in your network and connections.
Thank you,
Yichun Zhao
PhD Student in Computer Science
University of Victoria