ij3dptdi

International Journal of 3D Printing Technologies and Digital Industry

2602-3350 2602-3350

Kerim ÇETİNKAYA

10.46519/ij3dptdi.1739988

Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering (Other)

Üretim ve Endüstri Mühendisliği (Diğer)

3D PHONETIC ALPHABET FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH VISUAL IMPAIRMENT: DESIGN AND EVALUATION OF BRAILLE-SUPPORTED TACTILE MATERIAL

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8453-3570

Ünsal

Efekan

DOKUZ EYLÜL ÜNİVERSİTESİ

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5302-5901

Kahyaoğlu Erdoğmuş

Yasemin

Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi

04 30 2026

10 1 11 23 07 11 2025 01 16 2026

2017

International Journal of 3D Printing Technologies and Digital Industry

The study aimed to design, produce, and evaluate a Braille-supported 3D phonetic material to enhance phonetics instruction for individuals with visual impairments. Using the ADDIE model, the material was developed based on needs analysis interviews, expert input, and tactile design optimisation. Data were collected through rubric-based evaluations by 22 field experts and semi-structured interviews with 8 participants with visual impairments. Results showed that experts rated the material highly in terms of effectiveness, quality, and tactile conceptualization. Participants reported that the material concretised abstract phonetic concepts, enhanced motivation, and improved accessibility. Suggestions were put forward to enhance tactile spacing and develop versions for users with low vision. The study concluded that 3D printing could produce durable, accessible phonetic materials to enhance the learning experience. Future research could investigate different study groups, target learning frameworks, and various modes of audio support to optimise learning outcomes for students with visual impairment.

Braille 3D printing Phonetic Alphabet Visual Impairment Tactile Materials

TÜBİTAK 2209-A 1919B012463659

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