A Survey on the Use of Mobile Applications for People who Are Visually Impaired
Introduction The literature indicates that few studies have been conducted with persons with visual impairments (that is, those who are blind or have low vision) concerning mobile application or “app” usage. The current study explores the use of mobile apps with this population globally. Methods A t...
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Published in: | Journal of visual impairment & blindness Vol. 111; no. 4; pp. 307 - 323 |
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Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
Format: | Journal Article |
Language: | English |
Published: |
Los Angeles, CA
SAGE Publications
01-07-2017
Sage Publications, Inc SAGE PUBLICATIONS, INC American Foundation for the Blind |
Subjects: | |
Online Access: | Get full text |
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Summary: | Introduction
The literature indicates that few studies have been conducted with persons with visual impairments (that is, those who are blind or have low vision) concerning mobile application or “app” usage. The current study explores the use of mobile apps with this population globally.
Methods
A total of 259 participants with visual impairments completed an online survey. Descriptive statistics and bivariate tests were used to examine associations between demographic characteristics and mobile app use.
Results
The participants rated special apps as useful (95.4%) and accessible (91.1%) tools for individuals with visual impairments. More than 90% of the middle-aged adult group strongly agreed with the practicality of special apps, a significantly higher percentage than was observed in the young and old adult groups. In addition, the participants with low vision considered special apps less accessible than did those with blindness (p < .05).
Discussion
Results show that persons with visual impairments frequently use apps specifically designed for them to accomplish daily activities. Furthermore, this population is satisfied with mobile apps and would like to see improvements and new apps.
Implications for practitioners
Developers of apps for individuals with visual impairments need to refine and test the existing apps. Practitioners need to be knowledgeable about app usage so they can provide effective instruction to their students or clients. This study provides preliminary information regarding app usage among persons with visual impairments. |
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ISSN: | 0145-482X 1559-1476 |
DOI: | 10.1177/0145482X1711100402 |