PBLMP03: 3D Design and 3D Printing

The abstract nature of mathematics and science makes their teaching and learning so demanding because they require a lot of practice that most students rarely enjoy doing (Lebamovski & Godspoino, 2019). For decades, it has been challenging for teachers to make Mathematics and Science a little more appealing to learners across the world (Beluce et al., 2015). The invention of modern information technology and its integration into education settings has transformed the teaching and learning of mathematics and science.

Modern information technology allows different visual information to be displayed in three-dimensional space (3D) (Lebamovski & Godspoino, 2019). Information is perceived by sight. The maximum accuracy of any perceived information is close to reality. For instance, when a 2D object is observed, an individual’s brain attempts to reproduce a 3D situation where information is lost. This is generally done in accordance with individuals’ experience, knowledge, and other factors (Nedeva et al, 2017).

For today’s research and education, 3D models and 3D objects are very important (Beluce et al, 2015) because when they are used in education, they provide teachers with new tools to help learners more easily perceive the learning material, increase their motivation, and help accelerate the learning of volumes of knowledge (Petkov, 2017). They allow learners to interact among themselves resulting in a more direct approach to learning. For instance, an atom does not need to be imagined by the student if a 3D model is used to depict it. By using a 3D model, students can visualize an atom's structure, including how its protons, neutrons, and electrons are arranged. Also, a curve on a graph doesn’t sound interesting to learners, but a 3D model curve can provide a whole new level of interest and engagement because you can clearly understand the curve's shape and features if you can visualize it in three dimensions. They can investigate the link between the curve and other variables in a more engaging way while also observing how the curve evolves in various directions. So, it is necessary to use them in education due to their various advantages. This module was designed with all this in mind and It introduces the basics of 3D object design, 3D printing, and their application in STEM Education. 

The main purpose is to equip you with the skills for planning, designing, and printing 3D objects that can be used for teaching and learning STEM subjects. Throughout the module, students will gain an understanding and experience of principles and practices of preparing 3D models derived from 2D shapes for use in real-life applications.