Chia Hong Sen, a GDS client demonstrating a smart cane to navigate the exhibition. Source: The Straits Times
Collaboration with National Museum of Singapore and Nanyang Polytechnic – Accessibility in Museums
In 2021, Guide Dogs Singapore (GDS) collaborated with the National Museum of Singapore (NMS) and Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP) to bring accessibility to the museum. A pilot smart cane was developed by NYP to assist vision impaired guests to navigate independently in the multi-sensory exhibition “Home, Truly: Growing Up with Singapore, 1950s to the Present”. The cane was paired to a web application that provided a customised descriptive audio tour coupled with navigational instructions. For NYP to understand a vision impaired user’s wayfinding and incorporate that into a smart cane’s functions, GDS provided user and trainer feedback. We also provided training to NMS volunteers, including their Care Facilitators who are trained to support the museum’s access programmes.
We continue to collaborate with community partners to enhance the quality of life for people with vision impairment and ensure they have equal access and participation in the society.
