This project has created a Google Group (https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/3dp_edu_models) to allow teachers of the visually impaired to post requests for 3D printable model files, and for other educators or community members to post models they create in response.

How to use the group:

First, join the group if you want to post.

If you are a teacher of the visually impaired, post a description of the design you want someone to make. (One design per request, please- multiple requests are fine, but please make each one a separate post.)

If you are a school or community group wanting to create designs, read the requests, particularly ones which do not have any replies yet. When you see something you think your students can create, reply to the requestor, ask for any needed clarifications, and then go create it. (Reply first to minimize duplication, although there’s no good reason why multiple people can’t create the same model.) Don't be initimidated here - it's ok if it doesn't work out.

When done post in any existing repository (YouMagine, Thingiverse, Github, Tinkercad, your website, etc) being sure to document the license you are making it available under. Reply to the original post with the appropriate link when you are done. (If you do not have an established repository anywhere, you might consider starting out at YouMagine.com which has a pretty straightforward registration and posting process - register an account, and then click SHARE DESIGN. The site will guide you through the rest.)

Google Group members should be at least 18 years old. Designs are the property of the creators, and the responsibility of the creators or if applicable the creator’s parents or guardians. Please note any license restrictions and any suggestions for use and printing in the repository where you place the model. Please do not post STL files or other large files in the google group itself.

Bear in mind that some users of the site may themselves be visually impaired and using screen readers. (We have made the site as simple as possible for this reason.)

We figure that we will learn a lot from doing this much, and will consider other options when we see what happens! Please make suggestions in the comments.

In some cases the models might ask for labeling in Braille. The first log post of this project has some suggestions about how best to do that and links to a repository with a Braille-printing model.

Please make comments and suggestions on any part of our project. This is intended as an experimental start to create a community of learners that can all help each other, but we need a lot of input to make it as great as we think it can be!