Unified English Braille in the United Kingdom: Part 1 – Examination by technical expert Braille users

Abstract

The Unified English Braille (UEB) code has already been adopted by various countries. To inform the decision about UK adoption, a suite of research was carried out with UK braille readers and other stakeholders. Previous research indicates that readers of technical braille codes may be most affected by a move to UEB. In this study, six technical braille users were asked to read UEB samples of technical materials without training or reference to UEB symbols lists. While some errors and confusions occurred, participants felt that they were able to read and understand the coding, and believed they would improve with practice. Participants gave their views on the code and discussed potential implications of the transition to UEB. The majority of participants were in favour of adopting UEB in the United Kingdom.