3D Printing
So What?
3D printers have become one of the most engaging and influential technologies in the classroom. The most beneficial part to 3D printing is the process. Students are exposed to multiple Multiple concepts from different content areas can be taught by using a 3D printer:
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plotting points X,Y,Z axis.
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measurements
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area and volume
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design and build to problem solve
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scale
Students are constantly thinking of what they can create. Using 3D printers in the classroom meets the following iste.nets standard:
1. Facilitate and inspire student learningand creativity
a. Promote, support, and model creative and innovative thinking and inventiveness
Now What?
Put 3D printers/software in the hands of our students. Students can now physically touch their ideas and designs. 3D can be expensive by many companies offer less expensive "simple" 3D printers. The one pictured aboved was purchased for approx. $300 from printrbot.com. (This model required assembly, which can lead to even more learning opportunities for students) Companies like Printrbot make it possible to put 3D printers in the hands of students.
What?
3D printing is a process of printing physical 3D objects by laying multiple layers of melted filament (PLA) on top of another. An individual designs a 3D model using computer software then sends the 3D file to a 3D printer. 3D printing is also called "additive manufacturing" because it creates an object by adding material rather than sculpting from a substance.
