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Empowering Independence for Visually Impaired Museum Visitors Through Enhanced Accessibility
Theresa Zaher Nasser1, Tsvi Kuflik1, Alexandra Danial-Saad2
1Department of Information Systems, University of Haifa, Haifa 3498838, Israel.
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 14, 2025
Summary
This study enhances museum accessibility for blind and partially sighted individuals by developing customizable interactive tangible user interfaces (ITUIs). Findings show a pushbutton-based ITUI best supports independent exploration and user satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Accessibility Design
- Museum Studies
Background:
- Museum exhibits are predominantly visual, limiting access for blind and partially sighted (BPS) individuals.
- Existing accessibility solutions often prioritize basic inclusion over independent visitor exploration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate interactive tangible user interfaces (ITUIs) that promote independence for BPS museum visitors.
- To enhance existing ITUIs with improved audio content and flexible user control options.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative usability and satisfaction scales with qualitative data from think-aloud protocols, observations, and video analysis.
- Participants evaluated the usability, independence, and satisfaction of different ITUI designs.
Main Results:
- A pushbutton-based ITUI demonstrated superior usability (M = 87.5), perceived independence (72%), and user control (76%).
- Participants emphasized the importance of tactile interaction, clear feedback, and customizable audio features (volume, playback speed).
Conclusions:
- User control and precise feedback are crucial for designing effective accessible museum experiences.
- Customizable ITUIs can significantly enhance independent exploration for BPS individuals in cultural heritage settings.
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