3D Modeling and Printing with Vulnerable Adults

Abstract

3D Printing (3DP) has trending applications in many areas. 3DP has grown in popularity in recent years and it is also attracting significant research attention in Human-Computer Interaction. However, engaging in 3DP is not straightforward and not everyone participates or has the same opportunities to take part in it. Working towards making 3DP more democratic, and empowering vulnerable adults, this paper presents a participant observational study of the 3D modeling and printing experiences of (N=12) immigrants and low-literate older people. The study was conducted in two courses in an adult educational center in a working-class neighborhood in over a 3-month period. The results show that the 3D modeling and printing experiences of a number of vulnerable people at risk of social exclusion can be both examined and facilitated, challenging stereotyped (mostly negative) views of these populations and digital technologies. The results have identified two key aspects to examine further to make 3DP more democratic and empower vulnerable adults: interaction issues and spatial visualization. Future and ongoing research perspectives are outlined.