Student teams from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) have developed smartphone apps designed to make visiting two attractions in the city a more robust—and independent—experience for visually impaired people.
Working with the EcoTarium and the Worcester Art Museum, two teams of WPI computer science and data science students have created custom-tailored apps that describe artworks and outdoor science exhibits and can even guide guests from place to place during their visit.
“Such mobile apps give people the freedom to explore the world on their own terms, and at their own pace,” said Rodica Neamtu, a computer science professor at WPI, who advised the two teams of seniors. All students at WPI must complete a team-based Major Qualifying Project (MQP), a professional-level research and design project, before graduating.
Simple and easy to use, the EcoTarium Explorer was designed to deepen guests’ connection to the exhibits. Users can navigate the science and nature museum’s outdoor spaces at its sprawling campus on the city’s east side. Brief visible or audible descriptions are available at the touch of a button.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with WPI students on their Major Qualifying Project and feel fortunate to have WPI as a local STEM resource,” said Katie Chappell, director of education and exhibits at the EcoTarium. “This project fits squarely within our mission to inspire a passion for science and nature through one-of-a-kind experiences, interactive exhibits, and accessible programming for all. Ensuring universal accessibility and equitable access for all members of our community is one of our key strategic priorities.”
At the Worcester Art Museum, the custom-designed technology, called Beyond the Visual, allows users to read or hear a description of an artwork by opening the app and holding their phone close to a near-field communication tag, or NFC tag—similar to a QR code—mounted next to selected artworks.
