VIDBE-Q Volume 68 Issue 2
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confidence.
● The experience of participating in a focus group with fellow travelers was
valuable to participants. The conversations were often animated and
confirmatory of what was seen to be useful or frustrating about the
wayfinding experience and in wayfinding in general. For this reason, small
group lessons with opportunities for young adults to compare notes about
their insights and experiences with their O&M Specialists are important for
facilitating learning and confidence.
Social Validity
Participants—as well as O&M Specialists—expressed appreciation for the
experience. After the event, O&Ms arranged additional visits to campus to
encourage the use of the app. One O&M reported that one of her most hesitant
students chose to begin using the wayfinding apps on community routes and those
that integrated public transportation. Participants expressed their appreciation of
O&M and the use of apps and tactile maps to solidify and grow their skills. The
journey to adulthood, college, and career readiness is complex. Our study gave
voice to the experience of diverse travelers who use wayfinding technologies to
accomplish important life tasks.
