Helping The Teacher To Engage Students
Did you know that teachers who use 3D printed learning aids can save a lot for their teaching institutions? According to researchers from Michigan Technological University, as much as 86% of total cost savings can be realized with 3D printed products compared to purchasing from retailers like Amazon. In fact a total cost of $1.7 million has been saved so far by the education community as found out by the research team when 38 designs that were 3D printable were assessed and evaluated.
3D Printers in Schools
Many schools have used 3D printers for some time. Others have used 3D printed models to engage students in medical, dental, and nursing schools, which visualize the basics of anatomy. Likewise, 3D models increased student engagement in engineering, architecture, and design. Some schools have their own 3D printing labs with the help of industry partners.
The MTU study investigates the economics of classroom-based 3D printing of open-source digital designs of learning aids, focusing on the use of open-source desktop 3D printers. With 38 learning aid examples (clock, brain model, spinal cord model, combustion engine, Pythagorean theorem visual, etc.), using LulzBot 3D printers and 3mm PLA filament, the researchers analyzed the functionality, physically printed and calculated mass ratios, and 3D printer energy consumption to determine a dollar-to-kilogram cost for printing. They also calculated the economic viability of the designs, taking into account their printing and assembly costs, and compared them to equivalent or inferior commercial products.
Their analysis was that manufacturing the average learning aid themselves translated to 86% savings to teachers. Also, having a 3D printed learning model instead of purchasing one is equivalent to savings of 1 kg of commercial filament. Additionally, the average learning aid can also be downloaded 1,500 times, meaning it can be potentially distributed worldwide. Per year, each design means a savings of $11,800 and a total of $450,000 savings with the 38 designs. The return on investment would be more than 100%.
At the BETT 2020 tech show, there is a goal of bringing more 3D printers into schools due to the benefits of 3D printing and 3D design into learning institutions.
Designing and Printing For Teaching
If you have an idea that can make teaching and learning more engaging, come to 3D Composites. We design and 3D print great learning aids for all levels.
