COMPARISON OF 2 ORIENTATION SYSTEMS FOR INDOOR TRAVEL OF BLIND PERSONS WITH MENTAL-RETARDATION

Two blind women affected by severe mental retardation were exposed to two previously developed orientation systems. One of the systems was b ased on acoustic cues, the other on vibratory feedback. The aim was to assess the relative effectiveness of the two systems. Data indicated that the acoustic system ensured a higher frequency of correct moves f or one of the subjects and a more rapid performance of the moves for b oth subjects. The findings are reviewed in relation to the characteris tics and applicability of the systems.