BLOG 2- WEEK 3 – Design Based Thinking Creating Models for 3D Printing.

What is 3D Printing?

3D printing is the technology of creating a three-dimensional object through a machine that prints the object layer by layer (Grover, 2014). This is done so through a computer software to create your desired design. A popular software is SketchUp. The purpose of the 3D printer allows for an individual to design and print more complex designs than a traditional manufacturing procedure. This is so, as traditional manufacturing processes have limitations and restrictions. The 3D print material is most popularly plastic but as the technology becomes more common, materials such as metal, graphite and carbon fibre can be used.

“What Is 3D Printing and How Does It Work? | Mashable Explains”.

Mashable - Produced by Armand Valdes

How does it foster creativity?

3D printing can be a great use for classroom activity to foster creativity and design-based thinking.

For example, 3D printing can allow students to collaborate in groups to design different mini models or structures to support learning outcomes in subjects such as science or maths. In the example below, classmates and I have designed a draft of 3D print design to create a model that will be able to water plants on a time interval using a micro server motor. Once, the draft has been processed students can process their design in SketchUp ready to print.

(Madeline Hulme, Classroom Image)

(Madeline Hulme, Classroom Image)

(Image, Sketch Up)

Pedagogical Reflections

Design based thinking supports creativity for students as the process swings between divergent and convergent thinking models (IDEO, 2011). The phases students experience through design based thinking are; discovery, asking how do I approach/understand the challenge. Interpretation, searching for meaning and frame opportunities. Ideation, to generate ideas. Experimentation, make prototypes, get feedback. Lastly, Evolution, what did I learn and moving forward. (Design Thinking for Educators, p.15, 2011).

Limitations

Although 3D printing is great for design-based thinking and fostering creativity, the main limitation and drawback is the access to 3D printers as the cost may not be able to be funded by most schools. 3D printers a large investment and cost more to upkeep and the supply of materials. For schools who do not have access to the printers may be able to work more on the design base process of creating a model.

References

IDEO (2011) Design Thinking for Educators, 2nd Edition, p. 15

Grover, D. (2014). 3D Puzzle Printing.

Armand Valdes. (2014). What Is 3D Printing and How Does It Work? Mashable. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vx0Z6LplaMU