The prevalence of technology in the classroom is growing, and its applications will expand as it evolves. The main benefits of 3D printers lie in cultivating imagination and creativity in a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, chemistry, mathematics, biology, and architecture. The explosion of creative potential from how 3D printers can help students learn in the classroom proves that every educational institution should explore this tech.
Opens the Mind
Open young students’ minds instead of confining them to a textbook. While there’s value in following the traditional curriculum, most students thrive in educational pursuits that let them think freely.
3D printing and other technological design tools spark creativity and curiosity. There is no limit to what students may do with 3D printing—it’s amazing to see how imaginative kids can be when allowed to materialize their 3D creations.
Improves Spatial Intelligence
Some of the computational thinking and talents employers seek include decomposition, pattern identification, logical thinking, reasoning, and problem-solving. Incorporating computational thinking into the classroom has become more important with the advent of modern equipment like 3D printers.
Spatial intelligence is the capacity to derive inferences from observations of three-dimensional settings. This skill entails analyzing and understanding the size, shape, movement, and connections between items. Researchers have shown that incorporating 3D printers into the classroom helps students develop spatial intelligence, a strong indicator of success in STEM fields.
Active Learning
Students excel when directly apply what they’ve learned rather than passively receiving information. Therefore, 3D printers are great tools for implementing experiential learning and providing students with hands-on learning opportunities.
Teachers may bring theoretical academic topics into the real world with the help of 3D printers. For instance, students can learn about the inner workings of a heart from a 3D model. They are more likely to remember what they’ve learned when actively participating in the lesson.
Prepares Students for the Future
Students will be more prepared for the workforce if they can experiment with tools that stimulate creative problem-solving while they learn. The market for 3D printing and the need for competent people in the field aren’t slowing down anytime soon. Schools should capitalize on this trend, if monetarily feasible, and introduce 3D printing to curious minds as soon as possible. Luckily, the cost of machines is starting to drop as 3D printing gains more traction. Several dual extruder printers are available that won’t wreck the budget.
Recognizing how 3D printers can help students learn in the classroom provides children and adolescents with real-world experiences that will leave a lasting mark.
