Design Guidelines: Museum and Learning Center for the Blind

Abstract

The concept of modern museum and learning center are places for learning that everyone can access and use. But most of them the blinds cannot access because of physical limited and display methods. The objectives of this research were 1) to study the physical environment and facilities 2) to study how the information access and design the media for the blinds 3) to study the problems and limitations 4) to suggest suitable design of the physical environment, facilities, exhibition displays, and medias. The research tools were observation, interview, data collection in 4 places of museums and learning centers. By create sample information or tactile boards for experts to evaluate, then analyze data and suggestions design guidelines. Afterward, 19 experts from agencies involved in the blind assess the completed exhibitions again. The result of the assess shows that they need physical accessibility which 1) easily to understanding routes, that the same routes as the general people, not divided. 2) Tactile surfaces, must be protrude and be international standards. 3) Other building elements in accordance with standards and regulations. 4) Registration point is the same level as general people. Information accessibility should have 1) Information signage and labels should have braille with standard size, but not too long. 2) Audio description is the easily media for all. 3) Having QR code and QR Braille to get more information. 4) The exhibition items should have media for listen while touching. 5) Having tactile map in order to know the scope of buildings and facilities. The services provided by the tour staff are also very necessary.