Beröringsorientering

Beröringsorientering, sometimes translated as tactile orientation or haptic navigation, is a method of guiding individuals, particularly those with visual impairments, through physical environments using touch. This approach relies on the sense of touch to convey information about space, direction, and the presence of obstacles or features.

Techniques within beröringsorientering can include the use of tactile maps, which are raised-line drawings representing a physical space, allowing users to trace routes and identify key locations. Tactile paving, a system of textured ground surface indicators, is another common element, providing warnings of hazards like street crossings or changes in elevation. Additionally, guided movement through physical contact, where a sighted person or guide provides tactile cues to the visually impaired individual, falls under this umbrella. Specialized tools and devices may also be employed to enhance tactile feedback and spatial awareness. The goal of beröringsorientering is to increase independence and safety for individuals with vision loss by enabling them to navigate unfamiliar or complex environments with greater confidence and security. It emphasizes the development and utilization of tactile perception as a primary means of understanding and interacting with the surrounding world.