Title:
Implementation of UEB (Unified English braille code) in Australia and New Zealand - the experiences of a small sample of native braille users.
Publisher:
RNIB Braille Development Unit, PO Box 173, Peterborough, PE2 6WS
Year of publication:
2011
Background:
UEB (The unified English Braille code) has been in development for 20 years. Australia and New Zealand adopted the code in 2005 with a 5 year implementation period. The UK is currently considering adopting the code. This piece of research aims to inform that decision by collating the views of a number of Australian and New Zealand braille users. Ten braille users were interviewed. A number of users were also teachers, transcribers and producers.
Key findings:
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In general Australians and New Zealanders felt that they were consulted about the implementation of UEB. Their views on whether the code should be adopted were split equally between those that were pro UEB, those that were against UEB and those that were undecided.
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During transition, the experience of people who used UEB professionally (teachers, transcribers etc) tended to be good. General braille users experienced mild irritation at worst and many continued to write in the same code that they always had. There was one person who found the change difficult and unnecessary.
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Five years after implementation 8 of the 10 respondents are glad that their country switched to UEB and 9 out of the 10 recommended that the UK do the same. They urged UK braille users to think of the children and the future of braille and to act without delay. They stressed the global aspect and benefits and also offered advice on marketing the code.
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Although the sample size of the research group was relatively small there was a deal of consistency across a number of areas and some interesting themes emerged. The information will prove very useful in informing the UK decision on UEB adoption.
Downloads:
The Experiences of Australia and New Zealand in implementing UEB (Word, 335 KB)