Laying the Groundwork for STEAM: Scaling and Supporting 3D Design and Printing in Higher Education

Abstract

This perspective article outlines the design and development of a 3D Printing Ecosystem (3DPE) that aims to lay the groundwork for STEAM education. The 3DPE is a coordinated system of hardware, software, and people that has been intentionally designed to scale computer-aided design (CAD) and 3D printing (3DP) at an institutional level. CAD and 3DP are two prime examples of technologies that support STEAM by blending engineering with the arts. These technologies, however, are typically only taught in select university courses that focus on engineering, product development, and industrial design. In recent years, the availability of affordable, reliable, and highly maintainable 3D printers has created an opportunity to infuse CAD and 3DP as a shared set of literacies that can cross disciplinary boundaries. The 3DPE consists of a decentralized series of 3DP labs, a centralized 3DP server, and faculty training. Using a train-the-trainer model, the 3DPE supports STEAM education by training faculty in CAD and 3DP while also providing ongoing curricular support to infuse these skills into their courses through project-based learning. This article provides preliminary examples of how the 3DPE is supporting STEAM education and offers advice for others seeking to replicate the model.

Fused filament fabrication in CAD education: A closed-loop approach

“…The article by Koliasa highlights the importance of enhancing the formation methods of graphic competence among future engineering teachers using digital technologies, emphasizing the need to improve the teaching methods of disciplines such as "Engineering Computer Graphics" to include two-dimensional graphics, threedimensional spatial modeling, 3D printing technologies, and the creation of 4D objects in KOMPAS-3D, to better prepare teachers in the field of digital Technologies [13]. Another perspective article describes the development of a 3D Printing Ecosystem (3DPE) designed to facilitate STEAM education by integrating CAD and 3D printing (3DP) across disciplines, offering faculty training and curricular support for project-based learning, and providing examples and guidance for implementing similar models [14]. The review article by Ng et al examines the existing literature on the application of 3D printing in mathematics education, highlighting its potential to enhance students' mathematical and design thinking skills, as well as digital skills and mindsets, while addressing challenges related to hardware, software, and maintenance issues, and providing recommendations for future research and implementation [15].…”

Maker Math: Exploring Mathematics through Digitally Fabricated Tools with K–12 In-Service Teachers

“…While the transition from STEM to STEAM continues to be hotly debated [13,18], there is evidence that digital fabrication technologies (e.g., 3D printers and laser-cutters) can serve as a catalyst for the successful integration of STEAM education [20,21]. Building on the influence of the technologies adopted by the Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab) at MIT [22], tools such as 3D printers and laser-cutters are beginning to find their way into K-12 schools [21,23,24] and teacher preparations programs around the globe [25,26].…”