The Process. The idea of how 3D printing works is a math lesson in itself. Being a total novice in this department I called Casey Hopkins, Founder of Elevation Lab. Hopkins uses a 3D printer to build product prototypes and was able to help me visualize the process — think of a tube of toothpaste or a hot glue gun, building layer upon layer until the desired object is created. Not to oversimplify, but in attempt to gain a very basic understanding of what is happening within these machines, he explained the process so that I could brainstorm classroom connections. It really breaks down to:
The Mathematics. As you might have guessed, the math teacher in me can’t help but immediately think about how I would use this idea in the classroom — and there are a number of ways that a 3D printer can advance students' conceptual understanding of fundamental and complex mathematics:
Mathematical Modeling. As I continued to research this idea, I wondered how else these printers would impact the classroom. For my continued education, I called our friend Dr. Matthew Peterson at MIND Research Institute. MIND Research is actively working on building 3D manipulatives that work with their Spatial Temporal (ST) Math software, helping “make math come to life even more so than with the software alone.”
MIND Research is currently piloting a program now that provides teachers with the software for a variety of manipulatives that are embedded into the ST Math program. Dr. Peterson explains that he has been looking at how to do manipulatives for a long time: “It adds a lot of flexibility and instant access into the physical world from a digital content.” MIND continues to research when and how to incorporate manipulatives effectively to bridge between the physical and virtual world.
3D printing provides a more efficient model for a variety of classroom manipulatives. Most importantly, you can print out the exact amount each student needs. Gone are the days of purchasing full class sets and shipping them from around the world. If you have 30 kids that each need a hands-on experience for different concepts, you can easily personalize the learning experience for every one of them. If you lose one piece, you won’t have to get a whole new set; you can instantly print just what you need. New technologies will allow you to recycle within the 3D printing machine, helping cut down on waste.
As the world around us continues to change, we need to look at how we introduce kids to new technologies and innovation. The 3D printer and other tools like it are creating more and more teachable moments for us and our students. Let's make sure we utilize these opportunities to help prepare students for careers of the future.
Megan Mead is a Project Manager and Math Contributor at Getting Smart. Follow her on Twitter at @MegMarMe.
This post first appeared on GettingSmart.com in April 2014.
MIND Research Institute welcomes guest blogs that highlight best practices in math education, blended learning and innovative learning strategies that inspire students at all ages.
.png)
Comment