Lucciano Pascucci is the owner of Pascucci 3D, a printing, design and modeling company in Belvidere, New Jersey. In the following article, Lucciano Pascucci discusses the educational applications of 3D printing that have revolutionized the field of learning and STEM education. By harnessing the power of this innovative technology, students are able to enhance their understanding of complex concepts, foster creativity, and develop critical thinking skills, promoting hands-on learning, and unlocking new opportunities for exploration and discovery. Pascucci 3D is currently offering hands-on after-school programs and summer camps. If you are interested in having your child learn more about this fast-growing industry, please get in touch with Lucianno Pascucci at [email protected] for more information.
3D printing is growing in popularity both recreationally and within education. So, how can 3D printing be used to benefit students in the classroom?
3D printing isn’t just limited to being used in certain subjects and can be used across a multitude of disciplines to improve the learning process. Students who engage with 3D printing gain essential skills in the STEM sector, as well as being prepared as the innovators of the future.
Lucciano Pascucci Explains How 3D Printing is Used in Schools
3D printing can be introduced into the curriculum in a variety of ways, by both educating students and teachers on its uses within the classroom. Some use cases include the following:
Engineering and Robotics
3D printing is often integrated into engineering and robotics programs. Students can design and print parts for robots, drones, or other engineering projects, allowing them to understand the practical application of their designs.
Science Experiments and Biology
Lucciano Pascucci of Oxford Township says that 3D printing enables students to create custom lab equipment or scientific models to support their experiments. For example, they can print test tube holders, beakers, or models of molecules to visualize chemical structures.
In the biology classroom, 3D printers can be used to create anatomical models, such as organs or body parts, which aid in the study of medicine, biology, and human anatomy. Students can examine and explore these models to better understand complex biological concepts.
Art and Creativity
Lucciano Pascucci of Oxford Township explains that especially within a STEAM educational setting, 3D printers allow students to explore three-dimensional art forms and create intricate sculptures or structures that would be challenging using traditional methods. They can experiment with different materials and designs, fostering creativity and artistic expression.
Within STEM
Through the utilization of user-friendly CAD programs, students have the opportunity to construct and design basic machinery by assembling its parts. By employing 3D printing technology, students can transform their concepts into tangible objects.
Lucciano Pascucci of Oxford Township says that by integrating drag-and-drop CAD programs, 3D printing capabilities, and geometry visualization, students can actively engage in the design and production of objects helping them to connect with the curriculum.
The Benefits
Increased Engagement
As opposed to book learning, 3D printing provides students with the chance to be able to physically engage with the curriculum.
A study conducted in partnership between FormLabs and Tech Boston Academy showed that by being able to interact with 3D-printed physical materials or by designing tools themselves, students within the K-12 education bracket showed marked improvements in their engagement, enjoyment, and academic outcomes as part of a 13-week scheme of learning.
Cross-Curricular Projects and Learning
Thanks to the multitude of use cases for 3D printing, it creates many use cases that span across multiple subject areas.
Students from different subjects can work together to design and create projects that integrate knowledge from various disciplines, including geographical models, historical recreations, and other creative projects that help to increase understanding in more than just one subject at a time.
Preparing Students for Tomorrow
3D printing as part of the curriculum gives students a better understanding of the jobs of the future in which they could be employed. This is especially true when it comes to STEM education, as many graduates will go on into roles in engineering, manufacturing, and research.
They can create small mechanisms and pieces without the need for large manufacturing setups, enabling students to design and build intricate structures, products, and prototypes. This means they can problem-solve for small businesses, as well as be able to test new projects before they are turned into large-scale solutions.
Lucciano Pascucci says that this ability to create and innovate makes students who have used 3D printing in their education much more desirable as employees of the future.
Building Soft and Critical Skills
3D printing projects in educational settings allow students to be able to hone and practice a variety of skills. These include collaboration, problem-solving, teamwork, compromise, and resilience.
These skills can help them both in and outside of the classroom, creating well-rounded individuals who can take on any challenge.
Starting to use 3D Printing
With 3D printers and CAD technology becoming much more accessible and affordable than ever before, it is becoming increasingly easier for schools to buy into this technology.
Lucciano Pascucci says that there are many organizations and initiatives to both engage students and help to teach educators how to use 3D printing effectively to improve learning outcomes and open up a whole new world of creativity and ingenuity.
