Episodios

  • From Perkins to Pixels: How Multi-Line Braille Displays Are Changing Access and Education

    From Perkins to Pixels: How Multi-Line Braille Displays Are Changing Access and Education
    Dec 24 2025
    Discover how multi-line Braille displays like Dot Pad X and Monarch are transforming accessibility, education, and tactile literacy. Jackie Brown shares her lifelong Braille journey, from Perkins Braillers to cutting-edge digital Braille technology. In this engaging conversation, Chris speaks with Jackie Brown, a digital skills officer at RNIB and founder of Strive Ability, about the evolution of Braille and its exciting future. Jackie shares her experience supporting tactile learners, her passion for Braille technology, and how multi-line displays are changing the way blind users access diagrams, graphics, and digital books. From early Braille learning at age four to embracing electronic Braille in 2000, Jackie details her journey into using devices like the Dot Pad X and Monarch for reading Kindle books, exploring tactile diagrams, and supporting students in mainstream education. She highlights the power of tactile graphics, the importance of multi-line Braille in STEM learning, and the impact of showcasing these devices to educators and schools. Relevant Links Strive Ability: https://www.striveability.uk Braillists – Braille on Display: https://www.braillists.org/braille-on-display Keyword List multi-line Braille display, Dot Pad X, Monarch Braille display, tactile diagrams, electronic Braille, RNIB accessibility, Kindle Braille reading, Strive Ability UK, Braille in education, assistive technology 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 m
  • Inside Apple’s Braille Access and the Future of Braille Literacy

    Inside Apple’s Braille Access and the Future of Braille Literacy
    Oct 11 2025
    Discover what’s new in Braille accessibility with Apple’s latest updates. From iOS 26’s “Braille Access” mode to creative uses of BRF files and multi-line displays like the Monarch, this episode of At Your Fingertips explores how technology continues to shape modern Braille literacy and why it still matters in 2025. This episode dives deep into Apple’s new Braille Access feature in iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe, revealing how it allows users to create BRF (Braille Ready Format) files, take notes, perform calculations, and seamlessly switch between apps using a Braille display. Host Chris Cooke explains practical use cases—from writing Braille music to sharing specialized code—and highlights how iCloud storage makes Braille more portable than ever. Listeners are also introduced to Seeing Hands (seeinghands.org), a nonprofit distributing Braille books and dictionaries for young readers and developing Sudoku puzzles for multi-line Braille displays like the Monarch. The show closes with reflections on the ongoing “Braille debate” discussed recently on Double Tap: whether Braille remains essential in a world of screen readers and AI. Chris Cooke offers a compassionate perspective, acknowledging both lifelong Braille users and those who struggle with tactile reading, while celebrating literacy, technology, and inclusion. Relevant Links Article from APH on Braille's relevance in the 21st century workplace https://aphconnectcenter.org/careerconnect/professionals-with-vision-or-career-changes/employment-skills/is-braille-relevant-in-the-21st-century-workplace/ David Woodbridge's Demo of Braille Access on iOS 26 https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/the-incredible-braille-access-function-in-ios-and-mac-26-that-turns-your-braille-display-with-a-keyboard-in-to-a-braille-note-taker/ David Woodbridge's Demo of using Braille Access on Mac OS 26 https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/using-braille-access-via-voiceover-on-the-mac-continuation-of-last-podcast-re-braille-access-on-ios-with-voiceover/ Keyword List Braille Access iOS 26, macOS Tahoe, Apple Braille features, BRF files, Braille music, Monarch Braille display, Seeing Hands organization, Braille books for children, multi-line Braille display, Braille literacy, assistive technology for blind users, Double Tap Braille debate, Apple accessibility, Braille education tools, iCloud Braille notes, Braille dictionary, Braille Sudoku, Braille then and now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 m
  • Tactile Tools, Livingbraille, and Monarch Musings

    Tactile Tools, Livingbraille, and Monarch Musings
    Jul 3 2025
    In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, Chris dives into the world of tactile literacy with highlights from the Braille 200 Project at livingbraille.eu, sharing fascinating finds like Braille art, adapted games, accessible kitchen tools, and thoughtful articles on Braille display selection. You’ll also hear about: A hands-on filming experience with The Blind Kitchen, where every product label includes Braille. Exploring tactile graphics using the APH Monarch, from icons on an iPhone home screen to flags, maps, and even Star Wars characters. Tips for creating accessible graphics, understanding visual perspectives as a blind person, and labeling your own tactile creations. Reflections on how Braille enhances daily independence—whether labeling kitchen tools or learning state shapes. To explore the Braille 200 project mentioned in this episode, visit: livingbraille.eu/author/braille-200 Have feedback or want to share your Braille story? Email feedback@unmute.show — we’d love to hear from you! The Blind Kitchen Braille 200 Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/470493dd-c663-4e30-ae8f-82b856de0d88 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    16 m
  • Helen Keller, Jumbo Braille, and the Arrival of the Monarch

    Helen Keller, Jumbo Braille, and the Arrival of the Monarch
    Jun 6 2025
    In this episode of At Your Fingertips, we take a moment to celebrate Helen Keller's legacy, just in time for her June 27th birthday. We reflect on her impact, not just as a trailblazer for deafblind individuals, but also as a fierce advocate for Braille as a standard reading code. Next, we shift gears to explore Jumbo Braille. Yes, it's a real thing. Learn when it’s useful, how it’s different, and why it might be a good fit for those with tactile sensitivity challenges. And finally, butterflies and Braille come together as we chat about the Monarch, a powerful new multiline tactile graphics and Braille display from APH. It’s almost here, and you’ll hear what we’re hoping to do with it, from maps to music and even spreadsheets. Resources mentioned: Helen Keller National Center: https://helenkeller.org/hknc Feedback? We'd love to hear from you: feedback@unmute.show Thanks for joining us! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/9e8cfcaa-31e2-4f73-a563-963d394b8e49 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    12 m
  • Fidget Tools, Fun Gadgets, and Braille Input Devices

    Fidget Tools, Fun Gadgets, and Braille Input Devices
    May 1 2025
    In this relaxed May edition of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, we explore fun, low- to mid-tech tools that bring joy and progress to Braille learners. From Braille keychains and swing cells to the increasingly popular Braille Doodle and LEGO Braille sets, discover how fidget-friendly tools can reinforce literacy in a hands-on way. We also take a deeper look at input devices like the NLS eReader, Orbit Writer, and Hable One—comparing how each supports learning and navigation across iOS and Android. Plus, hear creative strategies for teaching the Perkins Brailler remotely and why using more than just your index fingers might improve your tactile reading. Got thoughts or questions? Send them to feedback@unmute.show and let’s keep the Braille conversation going! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/be72e9e6-bcc6-4098-afcf-c3a50085cdbc This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    22 m
  • Increasing Your Braille Reading Speed

    Increasing Your Braille Reading Speed
    Apr 5 2025
    In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, Chris shares practical strategies for increasing your Braille reading speed. Drawing from research by the American Foundation for the Blind and insights from Judy Dixon, the discussion covers why finger positioning matters, how a light touch can improve accuracy, and how bottom-dot recognition may slow some readers down. Chris explains the “scissors technique” for two-handed reading and encourages fun, low-pressure practice using tools like the Perkins Brailler or a Braille display. You'll also hear tips for daily Braille habits, group reading, and how to make the process enjoyable—whether you're just starting out or brushing up your skills.Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    12 m
  • Creative Braille, Birthday Surprises, and the Versaslate

    Creative Braille, Birthday Surprises, and the Versaslate
    Mar 7 2025
    At Your Fingertips: Creative Braille, Birthday Surprises, and the VersaSlate In this episode, we explore creative ways to make Braille, from edible treats like M&Ms and marshmallows to unique methods like puff paint. Hear about a heartfelt birthday surprise, where a friend crafted a Braille birthday card, and a humorous college memory involving a cake with backwards Braille. We also dive into the versatility of slates and styluses—both classic and modern—discussing their continued importance for Braille learners and seasoned users alike. Plus, learn about the VersaSlate, a paperless, reusable Braille writing tool that’s portable, erasable, and perfect for jotting down notes on the go. 🔹 Creative Braille Methods – Puff paint, edible Braille, and unconventional tools 🔹 Slate & Stylus Throwback – A look at classic and modern uses 🔹 The VersaSlate – A reusable, erasable Braille tool for quick notes Have a unique way you use a slate and stylus? Share your thoughts at feedback@unmute.show! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/3d4578e6-7baa-43f2-b7cc-f9ec0e08e0e6 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 m
  • Braille Then and Now – The Braille Doodle With Adds

    Braille Then and Now – The Braille Doodle With Adds
    Feb 7 2025
    At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now – The Braille Doodle In this episode, Chris takes a look at the Braille Doodle, a tool designed for both Braille learning and tactile drawing. This device has been a valuable addition to teaching and makes it easier to practice Braille while also exploring visual concepts. What is the Braille Doodle? The Braille Doodle is a tablet-sized device with two surfaces: Braille Practice Side – Designed for practicing the Braille alphabet, words, and sentences. Drawing Side – Works with a stylus to raise tiny magnetic ball bearings, allowing for freehand drawing or stencil-based illustrations. The Inspiration Behind It The Braille Doodle was created by Daniel Lubiner, a special education and art teacher for blind and visually impaired students. During the pandemic, Daniel was looking for better ways to teach remotely. The idea started with a simple toy and evolved into a tool that allows for tactile learning without erasing progress. Features and How It Is Used The Braille side has guided practice cells for learning letters step by step. The drawing side supports freeform sketching and graphing concepts for STEM learning. Includes stencils for creating structured designs and visual representations. Can be used to demonstrate spatial layouts, such as maps, grids, and even app screen layouts. Who Can Benefit? Braille learners working on letter recognition and formation. O&M instructors who want to illustrate routes or floor plans. Kinesthetic learners who need hands-on practice to reinforce dot positions. Anyone who enjoys tactile drawing—even as a fun fidget tool. Where to Get It The Braille Doodle is available in the U.S. at ATGuys.com. More details and resources, including videos and guides, can be found at TouchPadProFoundation.org. Final Thoughts This has been a great addition to teaching, and many are finding creative ways to use it. Questions or feedback can be sent to feedback@unmute.show. Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/38a960ca-7efa-469c-b569-58bc5be71e66 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    16 m
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