Model Interpretation of Topological Spatial Analysis for the
Visually Impaired (Blind) Implemented in Google Maps
Marcelo Franco Porto, João Francisco De Abreu, Renata Maria Abrantes Baracho
The technological innovations promote the availability of
geographic information on the Internet through Web GIS such
as Google Earth and Google Maps. These systems contribute to
the teaching and diffusion of geographical knowledge that
instigates the recognition of the space we live in, leading to the
creation of a spatial identity. In these products available on the
Web, the interpretation and analysis of spatial information
gives priority to one of the human senses: vision. Due to the
fact that this representation of information is transmitted
visually (image and vectors), a portion of the population is
excluded from part of this knowledge because categories of
analysis of geographic data such as borders, territory, and space
can only be understood by people who can see. This paper
deals with the development of a model of interpretation of
topological spatial analysis based on the synthesis of voice and
sounds that can be used by the visually impaired (blind).The
implementation of a prototype in Google Maps and the
usability tests performed are also examined. For the
development work it was necessary to define the model of
topological spatial analysis, focusing on computational
implementation, which allows users to interpret the spatial
relationships of regions (countries, states and municipalities),
recognizing its limits, neighborhoods and extension beyond
their own spatial relationships . With this goal in mind, several
interface and usability guidelines were drawn up to be used by
the visually impaired (blind). We conducted a detailed study of
the Google Maps API (Application Programming Interface),
which was the environment selected for prototype
development, and studied the information available for the
users of that system. The prototype was developed based on the
synthesis of voice and sounds that implement the proposed
model in C # language and in .NET environment. To measure
the efficiency and effectiveness of the prototype, usability tests
were conducted with the visually impaired (blind). The
qualitative and quantitative analysis of samples demonstrated
the feasibility of the model and its computational
implementation. The prototype is being used at a special school
for the visually impaired (blind) and has helped and benefited
approximately 500 people. Full Text
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