Title: Non-Visual Digital Maps: Defining and evaluating equivalent purpose between digital spatial diagram representations
Brandon Biggs
Ph.D. Student in Human-Centered Computing (HCC)
School of Interactive Computing
Georgia Institute of Technology
Date: June 17, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM ET
Location: Join via Zoom
Committee
- Dr. Bruce Walker (Advisor) - School of Interactive Computing and Psychology, Georgia Institute of Technology
- Dr. Jessica Roberts - School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology
- Dr. Carrie Bruce - School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology
- Dr. Nicholas Giudice - School of Computing and Information Science, University of Maine
Abstract
This dissertation conducts a human-centered examination and comparison of different sensory digital map representations and spatial diagrams. Motivated by the negative impact of inaccessible digital spatial information on blind and low vision individuals’ (BLVIs) independence, civic engagement, educational outcomes, and professional participation, this dissertation proposes and evaluates non-visual Keyboard Auditory Maps as a solution, contrasting them with current digital map representations, such as visual interactive maps, tables, turn-by-turn directions, nearby address searches, and text descriptions. Through a multi-stage research process involving participatory co-design and empirical evaluations, this research investigates if Keyboard Auditory Maps, particularly through the Audiom system, can effectively communicate spatial knowledge, achieve Web Content Accessibility Guidelines compliance across various devices, and facilitate independent non-visual digital map creation. The results of this work will inform digital accessibility best-practice, encourage the removal of exceptions for accessible digital maps in digital accessibility legislation, result in a commercial tool that can equally present spatial information in multiple sensory modalities, and present the most evaluated non-visual digital map tool in history.
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Brandon Biggs
PhD Candidate, Human Centered Computing