I think the 3D printing technology opens up all new possibilities in the classroom. It gives students a new way to apply what they are learning to more of a real life perspective. In core areas such as math or science it allows for student to better understand and relate to the subject.
As an Ag teach I think the possibilities with this technology are endless. It would be a great way for students to see what there project will look before it is finished. The 3D printing would be great as way for students to create a blue print of something and then see what the final results are. The other great positive I see from this technology is the excitement alone. It is a great way to spark interest in the classroom because the idea of printing something will make the students eager to apply themselves.
I also really like the possibilities of being able to print out parts that can be assembled. I think this would be a great way to learn how to assemble an engine or learn how to repair equipment in an agricultural setting. This would be a good way for students to start getting hands on experience before going into the shop.
3D printing is definitely a great way to get students excited about learning again. I can't think of a subject taught in school that couldn't benefit from this technology. I can just imagine my students taking part in a whole year or half a year project working on something they can assemble over time, for example, the skeleton system!! The only drawback of course is the cost of one of these printers and that many school, especially in rural areas, can't afford it. It's a shame that so many students won't be exposed to this kind of technology, but that's where we, the teachers, come in. There are many ways for us to introduce this to our students even if they aren't able to have the hands-on experience.
ReplyDeleteI like how you brought up the excitement factor in your post. As future teachers, I think that we sometimes forget the other side of the classroom, and I completely agree that using a 3-D printer would create a multitude of excitement for students in the classroom. That's the way that education should be: substantial, yet fun.
ReplyDeleteI hadn't even thought about using 3-D printing for blue prints. That would be an amazing way to see what you're going to build and just exactly how it will look. You don't just have to imagine how it works, rather you can create a replica. That would be super cool!
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