Double Tap

Double Tap Productions Inc.

Double Tap is the show where blind people talk tech! If you’re blind or partially sighted and have an interest in technology, this is the show for you. Everyone is welcome no matter how old you are or how much or how little experience you have with technology. Each week the team will help you better understand how technology can help your everyday life, even if you have little or no sight. Join the conversation and add your voice to the show either by calling in, sending an email or leaving us a voicemail! Email: feedback@doubletaponair.com Phone: 1-877-803-4567 read less

Our Editor's Take

The Double Tap podcast shares tech news and reviews with the visually impaired community. Its hosts are Steven Scott and Shaun Preece. They invite everyone of all ages and levels of tech knowledge to join them. Here they all learn about accessible technology.

Steven is a radio host whose sight condition forced him to adapt to new technologies. When Steven discovers a new gadget, he's excited to share it with the broader community. Shaun is an audio producer who was born with a visual impairment. He has had to rely more on assistive technology as his vision has worsened. The podcast hosts met while on the UK show Tech Talk and bonded over their passion for technology.

Steven and Shaun share tips and reviews in each podcast episode to help improve daily life. In one, they discuss a fascinating tool, Annie, created to help with learning Braille. Annie is for blind and low-vision children to use by themselves. Product manager Andrew Flatres joins to discuss its features, design, and value. They praise its focus on self-education, although it can be shared in the classroom, too. What makes it unique is that it provides a fun, game-like format that is great for kids.

An ever-present topic within tech discussions is the future of AI. Steven and Shaun discuss how it may help the lives of the visually impaired community. There are voice features and image descriptions within ChatGPT that are already beneficial. The podcast hosts also talk about the need for regulations for this new and fast-paced technology.

The podcast discusses coping with sight loss and the language used to refer to the community. It also features questions and stories from listeners. One listener talks about disliking the term "blind." He states that it's often the only way he can explain his need for extra help. The more accurate term "partially sighted" doesn't result in the same support, he says.

The Double Tap podcast has product reviews, recommendations, and discussions in all areas. New episodes arrive Mondays through Saturdays.

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Episodes

Tapestry Combines Social Media, Podcasts & YouTube In One App
Yesterday
Tapestry Combines Social Media, Podcasts & YouTube In One App
In this episode of Double Tap, hosts Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the launch of Tapestry, a new app designed to consolidate social media feeds, podcasts, and more into one easy, accessible platform. They interview Gedeon Mayheux from The IconFactory, who shares insights on the app's development, its Kickstarter success, and the importance of accessibility for blind users. The conversation covers the app's features, user experience, and future developments, emphasizing the community's role in shaping the app's functionality. There’s also more of your feedback, including the challenges and joys of using Braille, the evolving landscape of AI in narration and the joys of community volunteering.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Tapestry: A New Social Media App09:50 Accessibility Features and User Experience15:03 Navigating Content: RSS, Podcasts, and YouTube20:05 Managing Social Media Feeds and Muffles25:12 Future Developments and Pricing Structure31:34 Feedback: RV Jim's Journey39:09 Feedback: Exploring Braille and Technology50:08 Feedback: AI vs Human Narration57:44 Feedback: Volunteering and Community Engagement
Steven Has Coffee & A Large Inbox
2d ago
Steven Has Coffee & A Large Inbox
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece explore various topics, including the new subscription model for AppleCare Plus, updates to iCloud, and the user experience of the Amazon app.They also dive into the inbox which covers assistive listening devices for those with hearing loss, the challenges of social interactions, and the pros and cons of smart locks for home security. Emails also touch on privacy concerns with voice assistants, navigating dialog boxes with JAWS, innovative solutions for winter safety, the evolution of audiobooks, and the connection between narrators and listeners. A listener also highlights the resources available for learning Braille and the challenges faced in this area.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:34 AppleCare Plus Subscription Model04:51 iCloud Updates and Event Planning Features09:59 Amazon App Update and User Experience13:16 Assistive Listening Devices for Hearing Loss17:04 Social Interactions and Communication Challenges20:20 Smart Locks and Home Security Concerns27:50 Subscription Models vs. Purchase Models35:04 Voice Assistants and Privacy Concerns38:24 Navigating Dialog Boxes with JAWS40:41 Innovative Solutions for Winter Safety41:06 The Evolution of Audiobooks49:40 Learning Braille: Resources and Challenges
Kapsys Announce New Wearable & Talking Tuner Is App Of The Week
5d ago
Kapsys Announce New Wearable & Talking Tuner Is App Of The Week
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest advancements in wearable technology for the blind people, focusing in particular on a new product from French company Kapsys.In the news today they also discuss the GA Conf Awards, which recognizes efforts in game accessibility, and they talk about Blazie’s new integration of ChatGPT for JAWS users, exploring the implications and potential of these technologies.Our App of the Week this time around comes from Brian Counter, who demonstrates the Talking Tuner app for iOS that helps people tune their guitars accessibly and independently.Plus there’s more listener feedback on AI-generated audio descriptions for audiobooks, and personal experiences navigating social interactions with disabilities.Mentions:Kapsys KapX Wearable - https://groups.io/g/tech-vi/message/8546GA Conf Awards - https://www.gaconf.com/gaconf-awards-2024/Blazie Agent for JAWS users - https://www.blazieagent.comTalking Tuner app for iOS - https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/talking-tuner/id421065079Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:23 Kapsys and Their New Wearable Technology KapX14:16 GA Conf Awards and Game Accessibility21:51 Blazie’s New ChatGPT Integration for JAWS Users30:12 App of the Week: Talking Tuner37:50 Listener Feedback: AI in Audio Descriptions48:20 Listener Feedback: Navigating Social Interactions with Disabilities
Your Feedback & PiccyBot Updates
6d ago
Your Feedback & PiccyBot Updates
In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the latest updates to PiccyBot, an app designed to bring videos to life with audio description using AI, as well as listen to more of your emails.Emails bring up the challenges and advancements in assistive technology, including the integration of smart glasses and the implications of the 3G network shutdown on certain assistive devices. Following Steven’s story of living with a tremor, a listener opens up with their personal experiences with the condition.Our main story today focuses on Martijn Van Der Spek, the founder of PiccyBot, who joins Shaun to discuss the latest advancements in the app. They chat about the competitive landscape of AI descriptive services, the integration of live video features, and the future developments of the app.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:22 Exploring Email Interactions and Community Engagement12:18 Tremor Management and Assistive Technology18:16 Smart Glasses and Camera Integration Challenges25:09 3G Network Shutdown and Device Compatibility Issues27:32 Exploring Innovative Mobile Devices for Accessibility32:06 Advancements in PiccyBot: A Media Center for All39:00 The Competitive Landscape of AI Descriptive Services43:14 Integrating Live Video Features into PickyBot51:10 PiccyBot's Accessibility and Future Developments
DeepSeek Shakes Silicon Valley, Google Accessibility Updates & Make Your Own Talking
28-01-2025
DeepSeek Shakes Silicon Valley, Google Accessibility Updates & Make Your Own Talking
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss various topics including the recent storm in the UK, the emergence of a new AI competitor, DeepSeek, and its implications for the AI industry. They also address accessibility issues with the Apple Watch and the ongoing challenges faced by the NFB in improving Facebook's accessibility for users with disabilities. Steven and Shaun dive into the latest accessibility updates from Google, including new features for the Pixel phone and improvements in AI technology that enhance user experience. They also explore a unique talking microwave conversion kit.Listener feedback brings up accessibility issues related to AI integration in Apple devices, and a discussion on the need for a modern approach to Braille education, emphasizing the importance of teaching kids relevant skills for the future.Mentions:Facebook Mobile site: https://www.facebook.com/?force_mobile=1NFB article on Facebook accessibility: https://nfb.org/blog/making-meta-accessible-update-latest-improvementsGoogle Accessibility YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUSUvulzpUw&list=PL590L5WQmH8ce6ZPBbh0v1XVptLJXmQ0KMicrowave conversion kit from Eyes for Life; https://eflc.org.au/product/microwave-conversion-kit/Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro05:35 AI Disruption: The Rise of DeepSeek14:23 Apple Watch Volume Issues and Updates21:21 NFB and Facebook: Accessibility Challenges28:19 Innovations in Accessibility at Google38:03 Talking Microwave: A New Solution for Accessibility43:57 Listener Feedback: Accessibility and AI Integration53:10 Listener Feedback: Revisiting Braille Education for the Modern Age
Braille’s Link To Literacy & Employment & Changing AirTag Batteries
27-01-2025
Braille’s Link To Literacy & Employment & Changing AirTag Batteries
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss various topics including the ongoing debate about Braille literacy and its correlation with employment, innovative training solutions for the blind, and how to change the batteries in Apple AirTags.There’s also a lively discussion on various themes surrounding leadership in blindness organisations, representation, community support, language, and technology. Steven suggests the need for blindness organisations to have a succession plan in leadership roles, particularly for blind people, and the need for genuine representation within organizations. The conversation also touches on the significance of community support for those experiencing sight loss and critiques the limitations of language in identity politics. Additionally, listener and friend of the show Jenine offers her tips on changing the batteries inside Apple AirTags.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro11:09 Braille Literacy Debate36:39 Language and Identity Politics46:54 Tech Tips: Changing AirTag Batteries
Trump Announces Major AI Infrastructure Plan & App Of The Week
24-01-2025
Trump Announces Major AI Infrastructure Plan & App Of The Week
Today on Double Tap, Steven and Shaun discuss the recent announcement by Donald Trump regarding a significant investment in AI infrastructure in the US. They explore the implications of this investment on climate change, the ongoing debate about the balance between technological advancement and environmental concerns, and the future of AI integration in everyday life. Additionally, they highlight listener feedback on the positive impact of AI technologies on accessibility for those of us with disabilities. Listener feedback also brings up the intersection of technology and the blind community, emphasizing the importance of AI assistance, local tech training centers, and social tech training. The guys also talk about the role of technology in combating loneliness and building community, while also addressing the challenges of funding and access to services, particularly in Canada. And this week’s App of the Week comes from listener Lena - it’s called Better Help - and ot opens a discussion about mental health and the introduction of the BetterHelp app as a resource for support.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:48 Trump's AI Infrastructure Investment Announcement15:03 The Impact of AI on Accessibility29:52 The Need for Local Tech Training Centers31:45 Social Tech Training and Its Importance33:39 The Role of Technology in Combating Loneliness42:41 Challenges in Accessing Services in Canada44:08 Mental Health and Technology Support46:23 App of the Week: BetterHelp
Samsung S25 Revealed, Meta’s New Smart Glasses Partner & Spotify Audio Courses
23-01-2025
Samsung S25 Revealed, Meta’s New Smart Glasses Partner & Spotify Audio Courses
Today on the show, Steven and Shaun are joined by Marc Aflalo, host of YourTechReport on SiriusXM, to discuss the Samsung Unpacked event, focusing on the launch of the Galaxy S25 and its features. They explore the iterative nature of smartphone upgrades, the role of AI in enhancing user experience, and the integration of smart devices in everyday life. Steven and Shaun also explore Meta's advancements in smart glasses and the competitive landscape with Apple, particularly focusing on Zuckerberg's critique of Apple's innovation. Plus there’s talk about Spotify's new educational courses rolling out to users.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Samsung's Unpacked Event Overview03:04 The Launch of the Galaxy S2505:49 AI Innovations and the Future of Samsung08:58 The Role of AI in Everyday Life11:51 Connected Devices and Smart Home Integration15:08 Hardware Specifications and Pricing of the S2518:01 One UI 7 and Software Features33:30 Meta's Smart Glasses and Future Innovations37:16 Zuckerberg's Critique of Apple48:22 Ethical Considerations in Tech Usage50:14 Spotify's New Educational Courses
Accessible Home Security Options & Creating Content Easily
22-01-2025
Accessible Home Security Options & Creating Content Easily
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the evolving landscape of accessible content creation and home security solutions. They explore the barriers to entry for content creators, the importance of technology in connecting with loved ones, and the affordability and accessibility of smart home devices, particularly focusing on Blink security cameras. The discussion also touches the evolution of content creation tools, the significance of authenticity, and the need for accessibility in technology with featured guest Stephen Robles - host of the Primary Tech podcast. The conversation, first featured on Marc Aflalo’s Your Tech Report, emphasizes the importance of expanding audience reach and the role of technology in enhancing content quality using tools you may already have.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro10:19 Exploring Blink Security Cameras16:25 Accessibility Features in Smart Home Devices23:49 Future of Smart Home Technology with Apple30:21 Content Creation Insights with Stephen Robles41:07 Accessibility in Content Creation Tools
Microsoft 365 Price Increases & Listener Gregg Talks Smart Tech & AI PCs
21-01-2025
Microsoft 365 Price Increases & Listener Gregg Talks Smart Tech & AI PCs
In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the recent price increase of Microsoft 365 and the implications of AI integration into the service. They explore the confusion surrounding subscription models, alternatives to Microsoft Office, and the challenges of using email clients. The conversation also delves into smart home technology with special guest Gregg Hayes.Listener and friend of the show Gregg joins Steven and Shaun to discuss the evolution of smart home technology, the transition to ARM computers, and the challenges posed by legacy software. They explore the implications of these changes for consumers and the tech industry, emphasizing the need for better user experiences and the potential of new technologies. The discussion also touches on the frustrations with existing software interfaces on Windows, particularly File Explorer, and the importance of adapting to new innovations while managing legacy systems.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:49 Exploring AI Integration in Microsoft 365 & Price Increases06:12 Understanding Subscription Models and Alternatives09:03 The Confusion of Email Clients and Services11:54 Smart Home Technology and Thermostat Challenges15:12 The Future of Smart Home Integration with Matter28:54 The Evolution of Smart Home Technology34:48 Exploring ARM Computers and Their Impact41:30 The Transition to ARM: Challenges and Opportunities52:43 Navigating Legacy Software and Future Innovations54:35 File Explorer: A User Experience Discussion
From The Inbox: Meta AI, Facebook Accessibility & Reaper Audio Editing
15-01-2025
From The Inbox: Meta AI, Facebook Accessibility & Reaper Audio Editing
Today on the show, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece dive into the inbox to hear what you’ve been saying over the past month or so.There’s much discussion around the access to Meta’s AI functionality around the world, with many listeners in the UK complaining about the lack of the ‘Look and Tell’ feature which allows a blind person to know what the item they are looking at is.Also discussed is the benefits of Meta’s Ray Bans over specialist options such as Seleste glasses, with the guys raising concern over the future of such products. Plus Steven raises concerns over the accessibility of the Facebook web platform.The discussion also touches on the human experience of disability, the importance of civil discourse, and the impact of technology on social interactions, including the use of AI tools like Copilot and the enjoyment of board games as a means of connection.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro02:48 Listener Engagement and Holiday Greetings06:11 Reflections on Braille and Accessibility09:00 Meta Ray-Bans: User Experiences and Challenges11:53 The Future of Seleste Glasses and Market Dynamics14:47 Mainstream vs. Specialist Technology for the Visually Impaired18:04 Navigating Accessibility in Social Media Platforms27:58 Navigating Social Media with Screen Readers29:54 The Reality of Social Media Platforms32:50 Debating the Value of Online Communities36:07 The Human Experience of Disability39:55 Exploring AI and Accessibility in Technology51:58 Board Games and Social Interaction
Accessibility For Ontarians Act Misses Major Milestone & Steven Buys A Thing
14-01-2025
Accessibility For Ontarians Act Misses Major Milestone & Steven Buys A Thing
Today’s episode focuses in on the challenges and progress of accessibility in Ontario, particularly focusing on the Accessibility for Ontarians Act and its implications for blind Canadians. Steven and Shaun also discuss the importance of accessible technology, the role of legislation, and the need for companies to prioritize accessibility in their products. Listener Negative Julian also picks up on the potential impact of political changes in the USA on the pricing of assistive technology.However, our main discussion today brings up the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The architect of the Act, former lawyer David Lepofsky, highlights the shortcomings in the implementation of the AODA, the barriers faced by those with disabilities in healthcare and education, and the need for stronger enforcement of accessibility standards. The discussion also emphasizes the importance of advocacy, leadership, and accountability in achieving accessibility goals, while introducing the Accessible Ontario Pledge as a new initiative to push for change. Listeners are encouraged to support accessibility advocacy efforts not just for the benefit of Ontarians, but for all Canadians and anyone who visits the province.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro05:44 Steven Buys A Thing23:14 Political Implications on Accessible Tech Pricing28:13 Impact of Trump Tariffs and Inflation29:38 Accessibility for Ontarians Act: A Broken Promise35:54 The AODA Alliance's New Pledge41:41 The Accessible Ontario Pledge51:35 How to Support Accessibility Advocacy54:01 Federal and Provincial Responsibilities
CES Wrapped Up: Part 1
13-01-2025
CES Wrapped Up: Part 1
In this episode, Steven Scott and Shaun Preece discuss the transition into 2025, reflecting on the role of AI in technology, particularly in relation to accessibility. They delve into the recent FTC ruling against AccessiBe, the new NLS audiobook player, and Ontario's accessibility goals which sadly have not been met.The main conversation today covers highlights from CES 2025, exploring innovations and ethical concerns surrounding AI and accessibility. Steven and Shaun are joined by podcaster Marc Aflalo who discusses various themes from the Las Vegas event surrounding technology, including the future of content moderation, advancements in gaming technology, innovations in AI and robotics, and the evolution of connectivity solutions.The conversation also touches on the automation of eye care and the introduction of comfort-enhancing gaming chairs, showcasing the latest trends and products from CES 2023.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro21:39 CES 2025: Highlights and Innovations27:59 Meta, X & The Future of Content Moderation33:05 Advancements in Gaming Technology39:37 Innovations in AI and Robotics47:43 Revolutionizing Connectivity with Solus Go51:22 Automating Eye Care with iBot53:38 The Next Level of Comfort in Gaming Chairs
Braille at 200: Your Feedback
10-01-2025
Braille at 200: Your Feedback
In our final episode of our special week of shows celebrating Braille at 200, Steven Scott welcomes Shaun Preece back to the show to get his and your feedback on the conversations we’ve been having this week.Listener emails are the focus of the show today and they highlight the significance of Braille in today's world and explore its relevance, accessibility, and the diverse range of perspectives and opinions surrounding whether Braille is or isn’t literacy. Contributors also talk about Braille as a tool for independence and safety, while also addressing the need for respect towards various forms of literacy, including those who use screen readers. The role of technology in enhancing learning and accessibility is also brought up, alongside the challenges faced by people in acquiring Braille skills, and the importance of having touch typing as a foundational skill. Listeners also bring up the need for better resources and training for Braille instruction, while also addressing misconceptions about its relevance in a technology-driven world.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Intro11:26 Diverse Perspectives on Literacy and Braille23:40 The Role of Technology in Learning and Accessibility28:55 The Importance of Braille Education34:11 Challenges in Braille Literacy39:23 Advocating for Braille Literacy45:10 Braille as a Tool for Independence51:56 Personal Experiences with Braille Learning
Braille at 200: The Role Of Technology In The Future Of Braille
09-01-2025
Braille at 200: The Role Of Technology In The Future Of Braille
Today on the show, we continue celebrating the 200th anniversary of Braille, discussing its evolution, relevance, and the innovations in Braille technology. Joining Steven today is Stuart Lawlor, an expert in assistive technology who works at the UK’s Sight and Sound Technology, and Gregory Hargraves from Paige Braille, who has created an innovative way to turn at Perkins braille machine into a keyboard that can be connected to a computer.The guests both emphasize the importance of Braille literacy, the role of sighted allies in advocacy, and the challenges faced in developing affordable multi-line Braille displays. They also explore the personal significance of Braille from each their blind and sighted perspectives, the debate surrounding Braille literacy, and the need for updated research on Braille usage in modern society. The chat also delves into the multifaceted world of Braille technology, discussing the essential toolkit for visually impaired individuals, the challenges surrounding Braille technology and costs, and the impact of devices like the Hable One. The speakers explore the barriers to learning Braille, the evolution of Braille devices, and the potential effects of tariffs on assistive technology.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.Chapter Markers:00:00 Celebrating 200 Years of Braille Technology01:54 The Evolution and Relevance of Braille06:06 The Importance of Sighted Allies in Braille Advocacy07:57 Challenges in Multi-Line Braille Displays12:12 Braille and Literacy: A Personal Perspective14:08 The Debate on Braille Literacy17:55 Research and the Future of Braille19:49 The Global Perspective on Braille Usage30:29 Challenges in Braille Technology and Costs31:57 Hable One: A Game Changer in Braille Technology39:34 The Evolution of Braille Devices and Future Prospects51:46 The Impact of Tariffs on Assistive Technology
Braille at 200: Braille Education Around The World
08-01-2025
Braille at 200: Braille Education Around The World
In our third episode celebrating Braille at 200, Steven Scott explores the state of Braille education globally, focusing on the challenges and opportunities in teaching Braille to children with visual impairments with special guest Elizabeth McCann, a QTVI (Qualified Teacher of Visually Impaired Children) who works at the University of Edinburgh and has previously worked in Toronto.The discussion highlights the importance of early education, the resurgence of interest in Braille, and the need for individualized approaches to learning. Elizabeth also addresses the resistance from parents and the misconceptions surrounding Braille usage, emphasizing the need for better awareness and advocacy. This conversation explores the challenges and advancements in visual impairment education, focusing on the importance of Braille literacy, the impact of inclusion in mainstream education, and the varying international approaches to teaching Braille. Elizabeth highlights the need for better support systems for teachers and students, the role of technology in enhancing Braille education, and the future of Braille in a rapidly changing educational landscape.Get in touch with Double Tap by emailing us feedback@doubletaponair.com or by call 1-877-803-4567 and leave us a voicemail. You can also now contact us via Whatsapp on 1-613-481-0144 or visit doubletaponair.com/whatsapp to connect. We are also across social media including X, Mastodon and Facebook. Double Tap is available daily on AMI-audio across Canada, on podcast worldwide and now on YouTube.