We have been implementing the project 'Research on the recognition mechanisms of 3D objects in visually handicapped persons and the development of 3D geometrical teaching materials' in Japan since 2006. One of our main aims is to develop teaching materials to enrich the world of observation of blind people by touch. We have been creating models that blind people have never touched. The models have innumerable topics, but can be divided into two categories. The first includes models with objects that we cannot actually touch because of their size-gigantic or microscopic objects. As concrete examples, we are developing models of the planets in the solar system (e.g., Earth and Mars). These models have bumps on their spherical surfaces that can be felt by blind persons. Enlarged models of microorganisms like radiolarian and foraminifera are also examples of such models. The other category consists of models with abstract objects (e.g., mathematical curved surfaces and regular and semi-regular polyhedra). These models are also instructive for sighted people. Some simple improvements make the models more helpful for blind people.
Prior knowledge of topic assumed: Low
Contains advanced technical content: No
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