Designing Tactile Picture Books: Critical Making in Libraries to Broaden Participation in STEM Education and Careers

Abstract

PurposeThe Build a Better Book project (BBB) engages youth in an authentic, empathy-driven design experience in which they develop and create inclusive, multimodal products that communicate information for diverse audiences.The overarching purpose of the project is to heighten diverse learners' interest in and awareness of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers by involving them in a meaningful design and fabrication experience.At the same time, the makerspace experience is designed to develop an inclusive design perspective and skills in information and story representation, tactile design, 3D printing, and soundscape composition and production.The 'hook' for engaging these diverse learners is connecting them with a real-world need: the creation of inclusive, multimodal learning materials for children and youth who are blind or visually impaired.These products, including books, games, and STEM graphics, combine tactile and auditory information with text and Braille in order to communicate information, including data and stories, to youth who are blind.

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