AI app helps blind students experience zoo in new ways [Video]

DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa students used AI technology and tech devices to better experience the Blank Park Zoo during White Cane Day event.

Iowa students who are blind or visually impaired and their families were invited to spend the morning at Blank Park Zoo to celebrate White Cane Safety Day. Iowa Educational Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (IESBVI) staff were there to help the students experience inclusive access to the animals and exhibits.

IESBVI staff taught the students how to use an app that audibly reads sign’s and describes the animal’s enclosure. IESBVI gave demonstrations on how white canes are used and the different types of white canes. There were also monocular and binocular optical telescopes that helped provide better access to low-visions students.

After the demonstration students, families, and staff went on a tour of the zoo. Iowa Radio Reading Information Service (IRIS) provided live narration …