Using 3D Printers in the Classroom

One of the biggest trends we are seeing in K-12 schools is libraries emerging as adopters of 3D printing technology for “makerspaces,” a new trend that incorporates DIY spaces where students can gather to create, invent and learn on their own time,” says Mark McPherson, executive vice president at Advanced Education.

These new spaces, which are comparable to computer labs of the past, use 3D printers in their libraries to allow students to turn their ideas into a real product. Makerspaces provide students with accessibility to tools that enable them to create on their own terms.

Within these makerspaces, 3D printers are used in conjunction with other cutting-edge educational technologies, such as interactive smart boards. “For example,” McPherson explains, “students can design a tool directly on a library smart board program, import it to the 3D printer’s software, and print it. The concept is increasingly integrating cutting-edge K-12 technology to aid in the end-product’s design, and it’s a trend that will continue to grow as 3D printers become more prevalent in schools.”

He says that the majority of educators he works with believe that 3D printers can revolutionize the classroom in ways never thought possible. “They feel that the technology fosters hands-on creativity, builds enthusiasm, and offers students a new and interactive approach to any given subject matter. And, although educational 3D printing has already generated a significant amount of buzz in the industry, principals, district administrators and teachers are just beginning to explore the technology’s countless use-cases.”

McPherson adds that all of the feedback has not been positive. “While many early adopters are already well underway with 3D printing, there have been challenges. On occasion, schools have invested in 3D printers without ensuring the proper integration of them into their curriculum, which could result in neglect or lack of use.

“It is extremely important for any interested K-12 decision maker to include a curriculum package with their 3D printer investment. By using these pre-configured curriculum packages, schools can seamlessly integrate their 3D printer into their daily lessons. This approach helps ensure that educators realize the value of their investment.”

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

Featured

  • Creating a First and Lasting Impression with Thoughtful, Sustainable Design

    Clemson University’s Nieri Family Alumni and Visitors Center serves as the new front door to campus, anchoring the Tiger experience through each step in the student journey.

  • New Jersey PreK–12 School Breaks Ground on New STEM Building

    Saddle River Day School (SRDS) in Saddle River, N.J., recently announced that it has broken ground on the new Dr. Kristen Walsh Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship, according to a news release. The school partnered with DIGroup Architecture for the design of the new facility, which will provide the school with space to expand its STEM and business education classes.

  • K12 Tutoring Earns Every Student Succeeds Act Level II Validation

    Personalized online tutoring service K12 Tutoring recently announced that it has received Level II validation underneath the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), according to a news release. The independently validated study provides evidence of K12 Tutoring’s role in creating positive student outcomes through effective academic intervention and research-based solutions.

  • Pangram Secures Funding for AI Detection Technology

    Pangram, which provides technology that detects AI-generated text, recently announced that it has secured nearly $4 million in pre-seed and seed funding, according to a news release. The most recent round of investments, totaling $2.7 million, come on top of the pre-existing seed fund of $1.25 million.

Digital Edition