Tactile World Globe
by American Printing House for the Blind
Last verified June 15, 2026 · classified May 23, 2026
What it is
Summary
AI-generated from vendor-published content · May 23, 2026
A raised-relief world globe designed for students who are blind or have low vision to explore geography through touch. Continent shapes, major mountain ranges, ocean boundaries, and other geographic features are rendered in tactile relief, with braille labels throughout so students can independently identify regions, countries, and physical features. This is a complete, standalone learning tool — no additional hardware or software needed. The globe is larger and more information-rich than earlier APH tactile globe versions, but at roughly 12 inches in diameter it still requires good two-handed exploration technique; for students new to tactile maps, some initial orientation from a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI) will help them build the mental model to get full use out of it.
Quick Facts Catalog facts · auto-generated
- AT Act lending
- Out of pocket
- School district
What Setup Looks Like
- Out of the box
Remove from packaging and place on a stable surface — the globe is ready to explore immediately. - With a guide
- A teacher or TVI can introduce tactile map-reading skills and orient the student to globe conventions (equator, hemispheres, poles) before independent exploration.
- Initial guided session typically takes 20–30 minutes.
Getting it
Try Before You Buy
Devices like this are often available to borrow through your state's AT Act program — typically free or low-cost — so you can try it before buying or pursuing funding.
Where to Get It
Some links may be affiliate links — WhatCanHelp may earn a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you. More on affiliates →
Wondering how equipment like this gets paid for? See the official funding programs in your state.
Compare & explore
Sources & fine print
Vendor facts (name, price, platforms, vendor link) sourced from American Printing House for the Blind — view on vendor site; last verified June 15, 2026.
Classification & description AI-generated from vendor-published content on May 23, 2026 · confidence: high. Vendor specs may lag; verify before relying on details in a clinical or funding artifact.