Lesson 3: 3D Printing

What is 3d Printing?

3D printing exists in a couple of different forms, but essentially they all use a method of layering plastic to create 3D objects. Naturally, many people have seized on this as a tool for creating objects they can use for niche needs. However, as a digital technology it is a little bit more difficult to use to encourage students to be creative. However, there is potential in using design software to create the object that will be printed.

Advantage of 3d Printing

3D Printing’s primary advantage is the production of a physical object. As anyone who has ever held something in their hands that they made themselves, there is nothing quite like the feeling of pride it engenders. To this end, it can be a powerful motivator for students. In order to make the best use of this phenomenon to enhance creativity, the student should be encouraged to design something that can be printed. Making use of things like the Design Thinking process of identifying a problem, understanding the challenge and how to overcome it, coming up with a solution, trying said solution and iterating on that solution (IDEO, 2012) both encourages a defined process of creative thinking, but broadly mirrors the kind of processes used in the real world. Using frameworks like this has been shown to improve innovation in students as young as Primary school.

Disadvantages

The disadvantages of 3D printing are unfortunately numerous. Firstly, it is expensive to get into, and certain kinds of 3D printing (Resin printing) involve hazardous materials. Secondly, while designing can be advantageous to enhancing creative thinking, you are often limited by your tools. Take the above attempt at creating a movement tray. I knew precisely what measurements I needed, but none of the design tools allowed me to get those measurements with the precision I wanted, and I ended up being slightly out by the end product.

Conclusion

3D printing is very good at what it does, but what it does is quite limiting in many ways. As fun as creating models for history could be, it will not aid learning. Maths and science might benefit more, but often simply bringing in the tools for demonstration will be more effective. It is possible that the only real use case for 3D printing will be in dedicated design classes.

References

IDEO. (2012). Design Thinking for Educators .

Wright, G. A., & Jones, M. D. (2018). Innovation in the elementary classroom. Technology and Engineering Teacher 77, 8-13.