UAA Disability Support Services (DSS) recently announced the introduction of “talking signage" along a section of UAA’s Anchorage campus. The talking signage utilizes the RightHear app, which allows users to access audio directions with their smartphone. The system can direct users to entrances and restrooms while delivering real-time audio information about nearby features and what lies directly ahead. The signage is currently implemented along a “core campus corridor” that connects the following locations:

• Rasmuson Hall
• AVIS Alaska Sports Complex
• Student Union
• Natural Sciences Building
• Social Sciences Building
• UAA/APU Consortium Library

The audio signage is not large and obvious, like a traditional sign or campus map. Rather, the signage is implemented via small, multidirectional Bluetooth beacons. Users will hear audio cues when their smartphone is within 10 to 15 feet of one of the beacons. “It's taking what would normally be visual information and making it auditory,” explained DSS director Anne Lazenby. DSS believes the signage will make the Anchorage campus “more accessible for people who are blind, have low vision or are new to campus.” 

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, a different wayfinding beacon system was available on campus. During the pandemic, “that system went out of business,” explained Lazenby. “I felt like we were really doing a disservice by not trying to replace it.” After some research, DSS decided on RightHear, and began working on implementing the new system three years ago.

“We're showing the community that we care about accessibility and that people from all walks of life and abilities can get around on our campus,” said Lazenby. “We want people to feel like they belong."

Involving students and the community

DSS sought input from UAA students and the community while implementing RightHear, including collaborations with UAA Residence Life, UAA Facilities and Campus Services, UAA Student Engagement and the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired.

“This [type of] technology offers autonomy and independence,” said Nate Kile, program director at the Alaska Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired. “This is a game-changer for current and prospective blind students because they are looking for colleges that have greater accessibility.”

“[Kile]’s bringing over a group of students during spring break and they'll get to experience this new system,” said Lazenby. “Only our currently enrolled blind students have used it, and they think it's great."

RightHear is designed to enhance access for a wide range of campus users. In addition to supporting those who are blind or have low vision, the RightHear app offers directions in 26 languages, providing assistance to campus visitors who may not be native speakers of English. DSS believes the app will help meet “the needs of the diverse population at UAA.”

UAA is committed to campuswide accessibility in all programs and offerings, including digital and physical spaces. While the wayfinding beacons are currently only along a central corridor of the Anchorage campus, Lazenby looks forward to expanding that coverage in the future. “I would love to expand it. Of course, it's a budget issue,” explained Lazenby. “If we could get some partnering with other departments [or] facilities, we could expand it to other buildings.” 

Those who are interested in trying out the app can download the RightHear app and read the RightHear 'Talking Signage' User Instructions provided by DSS.