Adding Some STEAM to the Classroom 

3D printing in the classroom encourages problem-solving: students are required to think creatively and troubleshoot to get the 3D printer to work correctly. For example, they might need to solve issues with the printer settings, the design of their model, or the materials they're using. This process helps them develop critical thinking skills, as they have to analyze a problem, find a solution, and test their solution.

In addition, they're often required to collaborate with others, which also helps develop problem-solving skills.

3D printing is a very open-ended process: students have a lot of freedom to create whatever they want. There's no right or wrong answer with 3D printing, so students can really let their imaginations run wild. They can create models of anything they can think of, from animals and plants to buildings and vehicles.

There are also many different techniques and materials they can use, so they can experiment with different effects. All of this freedom makes 3D printing a great way to get students excited about learning and to let their creativity flourish.

3D printing is a fantastic tool for teaching design thinking: which is a problem-solving process that helps students learn how to identify, define, and solve complex problems. 3D printing encourages design thinking because it requires students to go through all the stages of the design thinking process: empathize, define, ideate, prototype, and test. 

For example, they might empathize with someone who needs a certain type of product, define the problem that needs to be solved, ideate possible solutions, prototype their solution with the 3D printer, and then test it to see if it works. 

Plus, it is a lot of fun!!!

What Career Paths Use 3D Modeling And 3D Printing?

Get in touch

 skrawczyk@twinlakes.k12.in.us