STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – has been a cornerstone of the American economy for the past two decades. Indeed, many of the advances in employment, productivity, and GDP in the U.S. have come from these fields.
As a result, a major emphasis across all levels of education has been to encourage more students to pursue STEM careers. And few other avenues are as effective at igniting the imagination of up-and-coming students as 3D printing.
3D Printing to Inspire Curiosity
In February 2016, Stratasys teamed up with Minneapolis Public Schools in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as part of a hands-on STEM symposium for eighth graders.
Tech industry reps (like those with Stratasys), educators, and the students were brought together to explore STEM careers in a dynamic, engaging, hands-on way that stimulated visions of the future for these young future professionals.
Stratasys focused on allowing students to explore the power of 3D printing and how it ties into advances in STEM, especially when it comes to careers. Many of the students had never before encountered 3D printing, but the exhibit gave them a chance to try 3D design software, examine first-hand projects created by other students, and check out how an industrial-grade 3D printer worked.
“The middle-schoolers had a real natural curiosity; we just fanned the flames with the potential applications 3D printing offers,” said Ryan Erickson, a teacher and Maker Space Coordinator with a local school.
Using 3D Printing in the School
This event is an example of how STEM careers can be encouraged by schools and training programs by using 3D printing. Arguably, 3D printing is far more engaging and interactive than some STEM courses that can be dry and unimaginative by comparison. Plus, students get a chance to create something and feel the satisfaction that comes with designing and making something with their own two hands.
“If students learn the principles of good design and see the results of their own efforts emerging from a 3D printer as fifth and sixth graders, they are going to be more inclined to develop interests in technical and engineering fields,” said Dave Benoit, the Business Development Director of Global Education at Stratasys.
Added Dave, “That means they are motivated to take more math and science classes, achieve at higher levels and ultimately help us to close the skills gap that is hampering our economy and causing many to be underemployed.”
Dave brings up a good point; our nation does need more skilled workers who are proficient in STEM. 3D printing offers a powerful way to take advantage of students’ innate curiosity about STEM and encourage them to consider such a career in their future.
