3D printing as part of the school curriculum

Although 3D printing may seem like a futuristic technology to some, it is already well established in a wide range of industries and is rapidly growing within the education sector. Michael Gove, Secretary of State for Education from May 2010 to July 2014 said, “3D printers are revolutionising manufacturing and it is vital that we start teaching the theory and practice in our schools.”

In a bid to enhance the teaching of science, technology, engineering, maths (STEM) as well as design and technology, the Department for Education (DfE) funded a 3D printer project in 2012-13 which evaluated the potential for the use of 3D printers in schools across the UK. Twenty-one schools took part in the project and were each given the funding to not only purchase a 3D printer, but also any necessary consumables and support. They were then given the task of investigating ‘the potential of 3D printing to support innovative and stimulating ways of teaching STEM and design subjects.’

As with all new equipment, 3D printers can take some getting used to. Most schools participating in the study found that ‘good quality upfront training of teachers’ and ‘good technical support both from manufacturers and internal staff’ was vital if they wanted to achieve the best from their printers. Although many of the teachers found that it took a few months to become proficient with the printer and its software, once the teachers were able to confidently use them, the technology was successfully integrated into the curriculum.

Overall, the project concluded that 3D printers can have a very positive impact within education. Several schools participating in the project reported that the use of 3D printers motivated their students, even those with poor concentration. And some students claimed they remained more interested in lessons as the 3D printer enabled them to create designs which other technology already at the school couldn’t. Even the teachers themselves became passionate about successfully including the printer into their teaching.

Following the success of this project, Michael Gove was extremely keen to not only bring 3D printers into schools across the UK, but also provide teachers with the necessary training to use them effectively. With this in mind, it won’t be surprising if 3D printing is soon a compulsory subject for schools nationwide.

At Utility Rentals we have responded to this advice by putting together the only education sector rental package for 3D printers that offers a cost effective way for schools to get a 3D printer, complete with training at their school, installation and a market leading 3 year onsite warranty. We can even provide teacher lesson plans to help integrate your new 3D printer!

Want to know more about renting a 3D printer for your school? Contact us today on 01628 667373, where one of our 3D printer experts will be more than happy to help you find the perfect printer.