If you are like me and love the idea of drawing with tactile feedback, then the Braille Doodle is a low-tech solution that might just be what you are looking for?
The Braille Doodle journey began a couple of years ago when the idea turned into a Kickstarter project and has evolved into a product by the
So what is it, and how can it be used?
Braille Doodle is essentially a double-sided slate which is filled with tiny balls. A stylus with a magnet on the end of it can pull the balls through the myriad of holes that cover both sides of the slate. On one side, you can produce Braille, ideal for teaching young children to read and write our wonderful code. Flip the slate over, then have lots of fun doodling shapes, letters, and numbers … the only limit is your imagination. If you make a mistake or want to scrap what you have drawn, just press the balls down beneath the surface of the slate, and you can then start again. The stylus is shaped exactly like a standard ballpoint pen except that the nib of the pen is where your magnet draws up the balls in your pursuit of doodling adventure.
So if you have a young person learning Braille, or you just want to have fun drawing something to make learning a pleasure yourself, try using the Braille Doodle. I love it! I recently took it to a couple of schools where I support blind and severely sight impaired pupils with their Braille and computer equipment. Both pupils were enthralled with Braille Doodle, particularly the ability to draw. I really feel there is a place in schools for this device, if for no other reason than to make learning fun.
The TouchPad Pro Foundation says: ‘Experience the power of tactile ART to ignite your senses and unleash boundless creativity and freedom. With the Braille Doodle’s innovative approach, you can draw while engaging your sense of touch, hearing, and sight in high contrast. Say goodbye to limitations and embrace a new way of exploring graphing, STEM activities, and diagrams. Accessibility has never been easier - it’s time to see, feel, and believe in the possibilities.’
Braille Doodle can be used in portrait or landscape mode, and measures 32.5cm long, and 23.5cm wide. It weighs approximately 1,162k, and comes with two templates that can be laid on top of the slate for guidance. It costs £119.00 excluding VAT, and can be purchased from Sight and Sound Technology in the UK, 01604 798070
Go on, let your imagination flow and start creating!