A stylus usually has a metal tip and a shaped handle and is used to push down through paper to create dots in order to create Braille writing. Styluses are available in different shapes and sizes to offer optimum comfort for the individual using them. The slate is used to guide the writer with the paper being placed within the hinged slate (Association for the Blind of Western Australia 2007).
Workplace solutions and adjustments:
For a person with a visual impairment who is comfortable with using Braille, using a slate and stylus is similar to writing with a pen or pencil. There are various different types of stylus and slates available to suit the individual’s needs such as:
- mushroom stylus which has a mushroom shaped handle
- peg top stylus which has a conical shaped handle or a
- regular stylus with an ergonomic handle.
Computers can also be used to create Braille documents using special software which can make tasks easier, but individuals in the workplace often still require Braille tools for other tasks such as note taking.
References:
Association for the Blind for Western Australia 2007, Braille, Association for the Blind of Western Australia, Perth, viewed on 13 March 2008.