Makerspaces have been widely advocated as a way to develop STEM abilities and soft skills. However, until recently, there has been little research that investigates the learning and teaching outcomes possible with makerspaces, particularly for younger students. Now, researchers at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, have conducted a year-long study into the benefits of learning 3D printing and 3D design in primary school makerspaces. From August 2017 to July 2018, Macquarie University’s Department of Educational Studies partnered with the NSW Department of Education, Carlingford West Public School, Parramatta East Public School, Oatlands Public School and Makers Empire for this research study. The research study examined how maker activities using 3D design and 3D printing technology could enhance learning and teaching outcomes: 27 teachers from three schools undertook Makers Empire’s Learning by Design professional development course and 500 participating students used Makers Empire’s 3D modelling software. The research study revealed […]

Click here to view original web page at www.3ders.org