Advanced Media

In the 1980s 3D printing was only considered useful for developing rapid protypes of items before time and money were invested into their full development. Now, 3D printing technology is becoming more useful as scientists and engineers create and discover more that can be done with this tool. Using a 3D printer in the classroom combines student’s problem solving skills with creative practices (Promethean, 2017). Students learn best when engaged, interacting with information and applying to practical problems and situations. The learning is immediately put into a context that makes learning matter.

Students can use 3D models to observe objects in a way that would otherwise be impossible when looking at a 2D version of the model or interact with replicas of artwork or historical artifacts. This is beneficial to students who have tactile and physical learning preferences. Students also develop their spatial awareness and intelligence when working with a 3D printer. Using models the students create can help students explore equations and how to find volume.

Using a 3D printer for learning also helps students move through Bloom’s Taxonomy. Students can begin by observing and classifying objects that have been printed using the 3D printer, to moving to creating and synthesizing what they have learned into an object that will be 3D printed. This also helps students engage in problem-based learning and STEM processes of observing, synthesizing, creating, and reflecting. Students can collaborate to create a program on the 3D printing software that solves a problem in their community. They can test their model with practical applications, and then reflect and improve their model to better solve the problem. This helps students meet ISTE for Students standard 4a Students know and use a deliberate design process for generating ideas, testing theories, creating innovative artifacts or solving authentic problems.

Makerbot is a 3D printer that helps students use their problem-solving skills to apply their learning in a practical way. Makerbots boasts a device that has a plate for models to rest upon while building, allowing for a more precise build, an enclosed chamber with a filter that prohibits debris from entering the classroom, and a touch screen that makes it easy to program the machine. Watch the video above for more information on MakerBot.

While 3D printers are useful and engaging in the classroom, the price of a tool can be prohibitive for schools acquiring these tools for learning. A simple search for classroom 3D printers found that most models cost upwards of $1,000. There were some models for around $300, but they do not appear to have the strength and endurance to be used by several students a day in the classroom. 3D printers also require purchasing cartridges for the desired materials to be printed.

This page was created as part of the requirements for TEC 561: Multimedia Instructional Strategies and Methods