Tactile Graphics

These websites provide a wealth of information about creating tactile graphics, including scientific charts, diagrams, models, maps, and symbols, for students who are blind or visually impaired.

Basic Principles for Preparing Tactile Graphics, American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
http://www.afb.org/Section.asp?SectionID=44&TopicID=189&DocumentID=374
This brief overview outlines some of the key points in creating tactile graphics.

Best Practice Guidelines for the Design, Production and Presentation of Vacuum Formed Tactile Maps, Tactility
http://www.tactility.co.uk/tactileguidelines/page1.htm
Ann Gardiner and Chris Perkins "set out an approach to tactile map design and production that will enable anyone to prepare raised graphics that can be understood by, and meet the needs of, visually impaired people."

Guidelines for Design of Tactile Graphics, American Printing House for the Blind (APH)
http://www.aph.org/edresearch/guides.htm
APH advises on design, symbols, lead lines, labels, indicators and scale for creating effective tactile graphics.

On Editing Graphics for the Blind, Marco Schuffelen
http://www.stanford.edu/%7Esipma/grbl0.html
This online manual contains information and advice on creating graphics for people who are blind, with many examples of good and bad diagrams. There are techniques for maps, diagrams, charts, graphs, geometry, and laboratory equipment.

Tactile Diagram Manual, TAEVIS
http://www.taevisonline.purdue.edu/manual.html
The Tactile Diagram Manual contains collected guidelines and techniques to transcribe print diagrams into tactile images; downloadable in print and braille formats.

Tactile Graphics, An Overview and Resource Guide
http://dots.physics.orst.edu/tactile/tactile.html
John A. Gardner introduces the possibilities and the limitations of "using tactile graphics for conveying information to blind people," with a focus on science, engineering, and math. Included are production methods, a resource list of useful tools, supplies, and vendors.

Tactile Graphics: Touching on the Basics (webcast), American Printing House for the Blind (APH)
http://talkingcommunities.com/wm/archives/rse86655772cc2/Tactilefinal/
In their 40-minute presentation, Karen Poppe and Fred Otto cover tactile vs. visual learning, general practices, terminology, production methods, and sample items.

Web-based Organizations and Internet Resources

National Centre for Tactile Diagrams, Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)
http://www.nctd.org.uk/MakingTG/index.asp
RNIB gives the basics on tactile graphics—what they are, when they should be used, and how to make them; includes descriptions of various diagram types.

Tactile Graphics
http://www.tactilegraphics.org/index.html
A member of Braille Authority of North America created this site, and her goal  "is to promote excellence in the design and production of braille graphics."  Included are "basic information on production methods and techniques," new products, hardware and software highlights, and information on training and conference.

Tactile Graphics Resources, Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
http://www.tsbvi.edu/Education/tactile-graphics.htm
This list of Tactile Graphics Resources was compiled by Judi Piscitello and includes contact information and a brief description of each resource; includes many vendors and manufacturers.