A lens into the haptic world

Abstract

This research aims to create a deeper understanding of the haptic qualities in the built environment. As a vehicle for communication with the researcher, children who are congenitally blind engage in photo-ethnography by using a camera. Their experiences, behaviours, use of the camera and the resulting photos provide unique insights in the role of haptics in indoor and outdoor spaces. The findings reported here are twofold: the method used to enhance communication; and the insights gained from the lenses of the participants. The findings reveal detailed nuances of thought, behaviour, reactions and experiences of congenitally blind children illuminating non-visual aspects inherent to the built environment.