The Benefits of Using Echolocation to Safely Navigate Through the Environment

This study investigated participant use of echolocation skills. Specifically participants were asked to describe what methods they used to generate sound, and what echolocation assisted them to do in terms of their orientation and mobility (O&M). Contrary to previous research findings, it was found that most participants preferred to use cane tapping to generate sound. Possible reasons for this finding are discussed. Participants reported that echolocation assisted them to self-orientate and detect, locate and differentiate between objects in the environment.