Our Braille Panel discussed the value of learning braille in the era of technology. The panel featured Connor McLeod, who successfully campaigned for tactile Australian banknotes in 2016, and vision impairment specialists Vincent Nguyen, Sonali Marathe, and Harzita Hashim. While braille may appear anachronistic in the face of ever evolving technological services, the panel argued that braille serves as a foundation for skills you’ll need throughout life. The panel agreed that it is an invaluable medium for spoken language to those with vision impairment and offers a stronger sense of independence than that of technological reading devices. Learning at a young age teaches children spelling and sentence structure that will come into use throughout their schooling and into the workforce. Our panellists referenced the relief braille gave to those experienced visual fatigue, particularly students. They suggested sighted parents use dual reading material that include print and braille so they may learn and read alongside their child.

Research Panel by The Save Sight Institute

Research Panel by The Save Sight Institute

Lorraine Villaret by The Save Sight Institute

Lorraine Villaret by The Save Sight Institute

Info Day 2018, Dr. Alex Ferdi by The Save Sight Institute

Info Day 2018, Dr. Alex Ferdi by The Save Sight Institute

Info Day 2018, Greg Alchin by The Save Sight Institute

Info Day 2018, Brodie Smith by The Save Sight Institute

Info Day 2018, Greg Alchin by The Save Sight Institute