Top 5 Benefits of 3D Printing in Education

3D printing works by starting from a digital model in a 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) file and then creating a three-dimensional physical object. An object is scanned, or an existing scan of an object is used, which is processed by software known as a «slicer». The slicer converts the model into a series of thin, two-dimensional layers and produces an instruction file (G-code) tailored to your 3D printer type.

The type of 3D printer most often found in classrooms works with FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology.

The 3D printer applies the necessary combination of raw materials (plastic, metal, rubber and the like) and then builds the object by adding a new layer at a time, 2D layer by 2D layer, until the design is completed by referring to the design requirements in the 3D CAD file.

When it comes to using 3D printing in education, it’s about turning objects on a computer screen into physical things that can be inspected and analyzed by students.

Here are just a few examples of how schools and students can use a 3D printer in the classroom:

• • in history they can print historical artifacts for examination

• • in graphic design they can print 3D versions of their work

• • in geography they can print topographic, demographic, or population maps

• • in chemistry they can print 3D models of molecules

• • in biology they can print cells, viruses, organs and other biological artifacts

• • in mathematics they can print 3D models of problems to solve

These are some of the ways 3D printing technology is bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds: Find what you need on screen, then print.

Pretty amazing, isn’t it?

As 3D printers become more accessible, they are no longer just another technological gadget for students to play with, but are now an important and useful tool for education, facilitating both teaching and learning.

3D printing is a tool that helps students conceptualize and visualize their designs as they develop sketches and arrive at the final product.

Top 5 Benefits of 3D Printing in Education

From a growth and development perspective, future designers, engineers and artists will be students who have been affected by 3D printing. Consider these top 5 benefits of the impact of 3D printing in education.

Excite students

3D printing offers students the opportunity to experiment with their designs from the model stage to its actual creation. This creates both excitement and a better understanding of the design process as they experience the entire process, from conception to actual creation. Individual characteristics are seen more clearly as the student gradually builds the project. Plus, the excitement comes from being able to explore details in reality, not just on a screen or in a manual. 3D printing also brings the world of theory into the physical world, where students can see and touch, offering new possibilities for learning and activities.

Complete the school curriculum

Regardless of the school curriculum, 3D printing can help students and teachers do better work. 3D printing can motivate students not to be passive in the learning process, to be unproductive. Unlike conventional classrooms, where students get bored easily, interaction with the 3D printer and teacher can make them become active participants through conceptualizing, designing and executing their projects.

Provides access to previously unavailable knowledge

Since most 3D printers are pre-assembled and plug and play, it’s a fun technology for students. They learn that it is perfectly acceptable to fail on the first try and try again to improve. When students begin to understand that failure is part of the process, they are less afraid of trying to apply new and different ideas in life. This helps to increase students’ self-confidence and teachers appreciate the results achieved by motivated and confident students.

It offers new learning possibilities

An affordable 3D printer offers unlimited learning opportunities for students. 3D printing offers students the opportunity to experiment with ideas, thus developing their creativity. It is not easy for students to understand things without visualizing them. A visual learning environment improves their understanding of the world by being able to touch and see their projects. 3D printers offer new opportunities to present information to young students in an economical and efficient way.

Promotes problem solving skills

The 3D printer offers a variety of learning experiences for students. They need to learn how different 3D printers work and how to use them, how to spot and fix problems. This is an art that many students do not get to experience during their normal studies. By learning to troubleshoot 3D printer problems, students learn to be persistent and resilient in overcoming challenges. This can also apply when it comes to solving everyday problems to help.

Encouraging students’ creative abilities can help develop a passion for original thinking and creativity, which can later be applied in the business world. 3D printing promotes student achievement and also prepares them for higher education. These can help them develop the confidence to take courses like those in STEAM fields. As students explore and develop their imaginations, they innovate by creating unique 3D projects that can help others develop and solve problems.