A 3D printer is a machine that seems to magically create objects out of thin air. It can "print" in plastic, metal, nylon, candy and over a hundred other materials. In manufacturing, it can be used for making models, prototypes and end user products. But how can it be used in education? According to an
NMC Horizon Project Sector Analysis Technology Outlook for STEM+ Education 2013-2018 the relevance of 3D printing for teaching and learning in STEM Education include:
This is fantastic news for educators and for parents, but not everyone will have access to a 3D printer. Fortunately, there are new products emerging that will allow anyone to create and print whatever they can imagine.
Create in 3D
Tinkercad is an easy-to-use tool for creating digital designs that are ready to be 3D printed into physical objects. Users are guided through the 3D design process through 'Lessons', which teach the basics before moving on to more complex modeling techniques.
The 3D designs that you create with Tinkercad are stored in the cloud for easy access from anywhere. If you do not have your own printer, no worries! With direct integration with third party printing services, you can print a design from Tinkercad with just a few clicks of the mouse.
Visit the website and be amazed at all the creations in the gallery.
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Tinkercad Tutorial Video |
3D Printer for Children
Printeer, ready for pre-orders, has designed a 3D printer specially made for children. In a digital age, technology skills are some of the most important a child can learn. We also know that kids learn best when they are empowered and engaged. With Printeer, we have made 3D printing, one of the world's most exciting new technologies, accessible and fun for kids of all ages. Now playtime and learning time can be one and the same, and 3D printing can finally be in the hands of the world's most creative people.
Amazon's new 3D Printing Store
Would you like to create your own bobblehead, personalize your tech accessories, or design your own jewelry? Amazon's new 3D Printing Store will allow you to do just that.
Amazon.com, Inc. Copyright Business Wire 2014
"The new store will feature fun and easy-to-use design templates for customers to put their individual style on an item they create and 3D preview capability to enhance the customer experience. With the 3D product preview function, customers will be able to 360 degree rotate a virtual model of a product to tailor the item from every angle. After an item is personalized and the customer has finished the checkout process, the item is 3D printed on-demand by a manufacturing provider and shipped directly to the customer."
"The new store will feature fun and easy-to-use design templates for customers to put their individual style on an item they create and 3D preview capability to enhance the customer experience. With the 3D product preview function, customers will be able to 360 degree rotate a virtual model of a product to tailor the item from every angle. After an item is personalized and the customer has finished the checkout process, the item is 3D printed on-demand by a manufacturing provider and shipped directly to the customer."
