Promoting active learning in an engineering library

Abstract

Active learning engages students to experimentally participate in the learning process, promoting a deeper understanding through application of knowledge. Examples of active learning in engineering education include group design projects, hands-on building activities, and experimentation. Like many college and university libraries with makerspaces, the University of Florida Libraries operates a 3D printing service as part of their makerspace. The service provides low-cost 3D printing to students and faculty. After several years of offering a staff-managed service, we realized that although the 3D service had met the initial goal of providing access to affordable 3D printing, students still lacked hands-on experience with 3D technology. In an effort to promote active learning, the engineering library began circulating portable 3D printers for individual use. The first 3D printers available for check out were Printrbot Plays, partnered with a wheeled Pelican case and 250 grams of filament. A LibGuide provided instructional materials. These circulating printers empowered students to explore 3D printing and troubleshooting outside the library, in their own space and timeframe. Taking student engagement to the next level, the librarians also developed and taught a 1-credit honors course where students worked in groups to build 3D printers. The course facilitated a deeper understanding of 3D technology through assembling 3D printers from kits, thereby teaching students the basic mechanics of 3D technology and use of tools. The course had a small cohort of twelve students, split into four teams of three, who built iMade3D Jellybox kits in a weekly class held within the engineering library. Student feedback was highly favorable for both hands-on learning methods. This paper discusses the benefits and challenges of offering these active learning opportunities in an engineering library.