HORIZON REPORT

The Technologies of the Present & Future

Define Your Topic with Examples from Schools

3-D printing has proven to be a valuable resource across several subject areas.
For English: Students in Farmington, Maine created an art installation to
demonstrate their understanding of concepts in a graphic novel.
For Science/Social Studies: Allows for students to recreate "fragile objects,"
such as fossils and artifacts that can be then be used for hands on learning.
For Music: A Central Connecticut State University professor created tactile
3D-printed musical scores in order to help students who may be intimidated by
reading traditional sheet music.
For Math: Specialized software (Mathematica) exists which allows students to
translate algebraic expressions into tangible 3D forms.

When is the time to adopt?

When teachers need 3 dimensional visual aids especially when illustrating a hard to grasp concept
For enhancing hands-on learning and learning by doing (3 dimensional objects = realism)
Implementing interactive class activities
Engagement
Adopt ASAP! 3D printing is preparing students for the future. This technology is going to influence all
industries (ex. manufacturing)

What pros/cons exist to your type of Technology?

PROS

MULTIDISCIPLINARY STRATEGY/ACTIVITY
HELPS CONCEPTUALIZE/VISUALIZE A DESIGN
IN THE DEVELOPMENT STAGE
HELPS UNDERSTAND STEM (SCIENCE,
TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATH)
CONCEPTS
EASY TO INCORPORATE INTO LESSON PLANS

CONS

CAN TAKE HOURS FOR SOMETHING TO PRINT

SOMEONE SHOULD MONITOR THE PRINTING
PROCESS AT ALL TIMES IN CASE OF CLOGGING
OF INK
EXPENSIVE (MACHINE & GADGETS NEEDED
FOR IT TO FUNCTION; INK, ETC.)
MAINTENANCE & SUPPORT OFTEN NEEDED

Challenges to Implementation
Distraction in the classroom - location of printer needs to be considered
due to impacts of learning (COM 381 Digital Applications for New Media)
Finding use for multiple subjects
Training Faculty
Classes for students
Software/3D files
Infrastructure

Impacts on Student Learning

Lan Neugent, interim executive director of the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) Educators understand that when children have the ability to see the results of their theoretical thinking in a concrete
form, it brings reality to the classroom.
New Media Consortium Report
While it has become easier for teachers and students to work with these models, some of the most compelling
applications of 3D printing in K-12 come from schools and programs that involve students creating something that is
all their own.
John Dogru, TechCrunch
Educators are harnessing their students creativity, and the next generation of designers, artists and scientists are
being propelled in the right direction.