Evaluation of an obstacle detector for the blind

Abstract

3 series of training sessions were conducted to evaluate an obstacle detector, using 26 totally blind Ss. Performance was assessed in 1 pretraining session with the customary mode of travel and 3 posttraining sessions with the detector. Ss were also given several psychological tests and 2 interviews. Using the detector on a standard obstacle course, Ss took longer to walk than with customary aid, but errors were the same. Ss who walked unassisted made fewer errors with the detector than without it. For those Ss using a cane or a dog, it was of little help. After more training on the use of the detector, Ss reduced the time to walk the obstacle course while errors remained about the same. On the field tests Ss made fewer errors but took longer with the customary mode of travel. About ½ of Ss indicated a desire to own the instrument. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)