What is 3D printing?

3D Printing is a process of making a physical object from a three-dimensional digital model, typically by laying down many successive thin layers of material. 3D printing creates parts by melting and extruding filament through a nozzle.

Benefits of 3D Printing

With the help of 3D printing, new prototypes can be created, problems can be easily identified and addressed, and solutions can be found. It becomes very easy to create complex geometrics and internal structures in Science projects. By designing a physical product, students get the chance to put advanced mathematics into practice to solve real-world problems. In this process, they get to see how the calculations have an actual impact on a finished product. Students could also draw two-dimensional shapes and extrude them into 3D. That drives home the connection between 2D plans and a finished, solid product.

Some more benefits of 3D printing are:

Design-Based Learning

It is a form of project-based learning wherein students learn concepts of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) by designing 3D Models.

Problem-Centered Learning

It is a student-centered pedagogy that helps students learn about a subject through the experience of solving an open-ended problem found in trigger material. Each student takes on a role within the group that may be formal or informal and the role often alternates.

A mix of Creativity & Innovation

The right mix of creativity and innovation along with curriculum helps students to be innovative and encourages them to learn new things.

Collaboration

Collaborative learning is an educational approach that involves groups of students working together to solve a problem, complete a task, or create a product.

 3D Printing at CHIREC

With the growing importance of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM) subjects, CHIREC implemented a 3D Design and Printing subject in the school curriculum. It helps students build their imagination and confidence and contributes to their boldness for design. Students print out Prototypes and refine their design to better understand the creation process.

3D printing technologies are enabling educators to provide students with accurate physical prototypes, which provides practical, hands-on knowledge useful for understanding scientific concepts. It also promotes learning through exploration instead of outdated methods that only focus on learning from textbooks.

Image sources: Pinterest, i-stock,  wallpaper-mania.com, 3D World – WordPress.com


 

 

 

“Passion is everything. Innovation doesn’t happen without it” – Steve Jobs

Hi, I’m Raju, and I have completed my master’s degree in (CAD/CAM). I’m very passionate about innovation and have conducted many workshops on 3D Printing as well as Robotics. I am a part of CHIREC and extremely happy to be sharing my 21st century 3D printing skills with students.