The ultimate educational tool

3D printing is not just a core educational technology across most disciplines; it is central to the educational sphere.

Here are some of the basic things to know about why and how 3D printing can be used to help students better understand and engage with course material across the curriculum.

3D Printers as Educational Tools.

In classrooms, 3D printers have two principal uses. The first is to print models that relate to the material a teacher is presenting.

In this capacity, a printer’s function is to improve student engagement through more concrete interactions than a textbook or verbal lecture can provide.

The element of excitement that 3D printers have for students who haven’t been widely exposed to them before can further facilitate this increased level of engagement.

The second use of a classroom 3D printer is to teach students the actual skills involved in 3D printing.

Recent statistics have shown that roughly 10 per cent of all businesses list buying a 3D printer by 2022 as a major priority.

A considerable majority of top manufacturing companies are already using additive manufacturing in their operations.

Since many jobs in the future will likely depend on familiarity with 3D printing, the use of a printer in the classroom to help students develop basic skills with the technology is a valuable educational experience.

Classes in Which 3D Printing Can Be Used.

In a STEM class, such as chemistry or biology, a 3D printer can help create physical models that students can see and touch to gain a greater understanding of scientific concepts. In math classes, 3D prints can be useful in helping students gain greater insights into complex geometries.

In history classes, replicas of objects and artefacts from different historical periods can be created right in the classroom, providing an engaging learning activity for students.

Geographic terrains and features are easy to replicate as 3D models, allowing students to better understand them.

Even art and design classes are able to use three-dimensional models to bring projects to life.

Ultimately, a 3D printer isn’t subject-specific.

3D printing is useful in practically any class and should be thought of as a ubiquitous teaching tool that can enhance the educational experience for students.

If your classes don’t already include

3D printing technology, consider getting a classroom 3D printer that will help your pupils learn and explore in new and exciting ways.

For more information visit:

www.me3d.com.au.

Engaging students in STEM.