Visual Impairment Students Inclusion using Digital Fabrication Technologies: Collaborative Development of Chemistry Learning Support Tools

This case study aims to share a collaborative workflow to develop a chemistry science ludic learning tool, accessible to both, normal vision (NV), and blind, and low vision impared (BLV) students. A 3D model was designed, seeking to facilitate chemical elements’ electrons configuration representation, using information from the periodic table. The model was transformed into a physical product using digital fabrication technologies, allowing to reproduce Braille captions into each product component. Three-step developmental procedures, guided by a user-centered design process, include: (A) physical representation design, (B) appropriate digital manufacturing technology selection and fabrication, (C) user testing. Within these processes, 3D printing versatile application, and its capabilities to be complemented with CNC milling and laser cutting technologies was tested. Preliminary results, collected following UX testing processes, show the potential of digital fabrication technologies as democratic technological tools that could support customized products manufacturing, to foster most vulnerable communities such as BLV’s students. Thus, its future applications could help to overcome local problems, and barriers.