Methods at a glance
There are many ways to simulate visual impairment and bring people closer to the world VIPs see: videos and images, simulation glasses, augmented reality, virtual reality. Across our offerings we combine several methods, with the focus on augmented and especially virtual reality.
Videos and images
Videos and images are a low-barrier way to surface symptoms of eye conditions and convey a fast first impression — the technical effort is minimal. At the same time they're two-dimensional and not immersive, so the impression remains abstract and the experience can stay rather superficial.
Simulation glasses
Simulation glasses (often cardboard) are handed out free by self-help associations. Effort is comparatively low and the glasses are a good tool for first impressions. But only one symptom can be simulated, and the complexity and variety of eye conditions can't be conveyed.
Augmented reality
Augmented reality (AR) — for example via Cardboards that turn a smartphone into a basic VR headset — combines the real environment with virtual elements. Concretely, perception filters are layered onto reality. AR is a good compromise between low barrier and immersion. One app we recommend and partly use in workshops is Tengo Baja de Vision.
Virtual reality
Virtual reality offers the most complex form of simulating vision impairment: high immersion plus the freedom to simulate situations that would be uncomfortable or dangerous in reality. Assistive tools are simulated too. Playful elements — different tasks, our app's mascot Oggi — are possible in VR. Using the app should also be fun, not only trigger sympathy. The technical effort is comparatively high but, in our view, worth it for an experience that's genuinely impactful.