Are Your 3D Printers Collecting Dust in the Back of Your Classroom?

Over the years, we've been invited into hundreds of classrooms, where we can see how 3D printing technology is implemented and watch how students access the machines. We have seen all different types of setups. Some work, and some need work.

So, some 3D printers never see much use. There are a number of reasons this might happen:

• Lack of Training: Teachers and staff may not have received adequate training on how to use the printers effectively.
• Complexity: The setup and operation of the printers could be perceived as too complicated or time-consuming.
• Curriculum Integration: Difficulty in integrating 3D printing projects into the existing curriculum.
• Maintenance Issues: Regular maintenance and troubleshooting may have been a barrier, with staff unsure how to keep the printers running smoothly.
• Access and Scheduling: Challenges in managing access to the printers, leading to underutilization.
• Resource Management: Difficulty in managing the supply of filament and other consumables efficiently, leading to downtime and interruptions in printing.
• Lack of Engagement: Students and teachers might not have been motivated or encouraged to explore the potential of 3D printing.

It's easy to get into the swing of things and watch as the academic term flies by. Teachers and students work hard enough to complete the academic course load that is in front of them, and don't have much time for "extras" like 3D printing, VR, digital modeling, etc.

It's unfortunate to see, because when 3D printers are used effectively, they can be some of the most transformative teaching tools to show up in the last several decades. We've seen it time and time again. Certain students that show little interest in other parts of class will start showing up, will start paying attention, will start asking questions and coming into class to check on the printers in their free time.

If you're an administrator and you've seen certain classrooms fail to get up and running with their 3D printers, try to think about the roadblocks and botttlenecks they might be encountering. Having them set up their school, connect their printers, and share it with students could make all of the difference in the world for a student and send them down a path towards a lifelong career.