Free Online Resources & Courses to Learn Braille Today

On the occasion of International World Braille Day on January 4th, we rounded up various ways of learning Braille, the unique language of touch. Whether you are someone who is blind or has low vision, a friend, family member, or simply an ally, learning Braille can be an enriching experience. In this blog, we will explore resources and courses available online globally for learning Braille - and many are completely free or available at low cost. Learning Braille not only enhances accessibility but also strengthens relationships through shared communication. 

1. Online Learning Platforms:

Braille learning is just a few clicks away. For instance, Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired and Unified English Braille Online offer extensive, free courses adaptable for learners at various stages. Furthermore, institutions like the Perkins School for the Blind provide tailored courses and tutorials, enhancing Braille education for diverse age groups. Path to Literacy offers a range of resources for learning and teaching Braille. This site serves as a comprehensive guide for educators, families, and learners themselves.

2. Multilingual Resources:

Recognizing the global need for Braille literacy, several resources cater to non-English speakers. L'Association Valentin Haüy in France provides French Braille resources, while ONCE in Spain offers resources in Spanish. For Arabic speakers, the Unified Arabic Braille Portal by Mada center is valuable resource for learning Braille in Arabic.

2. Apps:

Mobile apps like Braille Tutor provide interactive lessons on your smartphone. These apps are often free and offer a convenient way to learn Braille on-the-go.

3. YouTube Tutorials:

YouTube hosts a variety of channels dedicated to teaching Braille. These visual and auditory resources make learning engaging and accessible to everyone.

4. National Federation of the Blind (NFB) Braille Certification:

While not entirely an online course, NFB offers resources and certification for learning Braille. They provide materials that can be helpful for both personal learning and professional certification. 

5. Coursera and other MOOC Platforms:

Occasionally, platforms like Coursera may offer courses or resources related to Braille. These courses are usually created by universities or educational institutions and can be accessed for free (though a fee may be required for certification).

Conclusion

Learning Braille is a journey that opens doors to enhanced communication and independence. The ability to read and write in this tactile code can be empowering for individuals who are blind or have low vision, and it also allows friends, family, and allies to communicate more effectively with them.

We encourage you to explore these resources and start your journey in learning Braille. Whether for personal development, to support a loved one, or to contribute to a more inclusive world, learning Braille is a step towards bridging communication gaps and building stronger connections.