Tactile Graphics

Carmen Willings | teachingvisuallyimpaired.com | February 21, 2026

Tactile graphics provide students who are blind or visually impaired with access to visual information through touch. By representing objects, diagrams, maps, charts, and other visual materials in tactile form, they help students understand shapes, spatial relationships, and concepts that might otherwise be inaccessible. Because interpreting tactile graphics is a learned skill, students require direct instruction in efficient exploration techniques, symbol recognition, and connecting tactile representations to real-world objects and experiences. Developing tactile graphic literacy supports concept development and provides access to academic content across subjects such as math, science, geography, and daily living skills.

Foundational Tactile Graphic Skills

Helping students understand how tactile representations relate to real objects and environments. Includes:

Tactile Graphic Instruction and Interpretation

Teaching students how to explore and interpret tactile graphics effectively. Includes:

Creating Tactile Graphics

Supporting educators in creating accessible tactile materials. Includes:

Methods of Creating Tactile Graphics

Tactile Graphics Technology and Tools

Using technology and tools to create and access tactile graphics. Includes:

Tactile Graphics Technology

Instructional Tools and Teaching Supports

Resources that support instruction and student engagement. Includes:

Caseload Polls

Resource Access

Downloadable printable resources, lesson plans, recorded presentations, and ECC instructional units are available to Premium Subscribers.

Subscription Plans

Thank you for visiting!

Thank you for visiting Teaching Students with Visual Impairments. This site was created to support educators, families, and professionals who are dedicated to helping students who are blind or visually impaired succeed.

The mission of Teaching Students with Visual Impairments is to provide educators, families, and professionals with the resources needed to support students who are blind or visually impaired. The goal is to equip those in the visual impairment field with practical tools and instructional guidance that help students develop independence and become successful members of their communities.