V-NAV Usability Study: End Users Trying the Vortant Indoor Navigation Tool

The study will begin with an explanatory/training session where individuals with low vision will learn to use the V-NAV (Vortant NAVigation tool) indoor navigation app, and will have the opportunity to try it for a few representative tasks. The main activity includes a take-home trial, an extended unstructured period to emulate the post-purchase experience of users, during which participants will have the opportunity to use the V-NAV in their everyday lives. Data will be collected from the users to measure the relative advantage of V-NAV compared to the user's current indoor navigation method.

The introductory session, emphasizing real-world experiences, will involve a brief training session followed by simulated navigation experiences in a convenient location to the users. Participants will use V-NAV to record approximately 8 locations, then will be given instructions to find these locations again. The V-NAV prototype's logging software will measure distance walked and task time. Participants will complete a study-specific tool covering the relevant attributes of the V-NAV prototype, as well as a standardized tool, the NASA TLX (Task Load Index). Subsequently, participants will complete a take-home trial, during which they will be encouraged to use the V-NAV features regularly to support their everyday community navigation activities. Participants will be contacted approximately weekly with a "check-in" to answer questions and resolve any emergent technical problems. At the conclusion of the trial, a product-specific tool and an appropriate standardized tool, the PIADS (Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale) will be administered.

Participants will compare the value of the prototype app to their previous navigational experience without the app.

A measurement of user impressions as to the value of the V-NAV navigation aid. Use of e.g., PIADS survey.

Inclusion Criteria: AFB "visually impaired" definition, acuity 20/70 or worse or field loss of 140 degrees Exclusion Criteria: Any health condition that may affect safety of individual to participate Any physical, mental, or behavioral impairment that would provide more than minimal risk or hindering ability to comprehend the purpose of the device or otherwise to be a potential user of the V-NAV hardware or app.