Beyond the glass: enhancing accessibility for visually impaired visitors to preserved exhibits at the KwaZulu-Natal Museum.

Abstract

This study looked at how museum artefacts can be made accessible to people who are visually impaired. It focused on two Victorian insect models from the KwaZulu-Natal Museum and explored how they could be experienced through touch, sound, and language. The work drew on New Museology, Inclusive Design, and the Social Model of Disability to think about accessibility as both a design challenge and a social concern. A practice-led approach was used. The artefacts were scanned, modelled, and reproduced as tactile 3D prints. Braille labels and audio descriptions in both English and isiZulu were created to help participants interact with the models independently. Testing took place at the University of KwaZulu-Natal with three visually impaired participants. bservation, reflection, and questionnaires were used to record their responses. The findings showed that tactile and audio tools helped participants explore with confidence and interest. They valued the use of isiZulu and suggested small changes, such as adding clearer spatial cues. Overall, the project showed that inclusion improves through small, practical steps, teamwork, and user feedback. It also demonstrated how museums can share their collections in ways that feel welcoming and meaningful to all visitors.