Pictured: Kristen Landers, Elementary Computer Teacher at Redbank Valley and Tyler Cauvel, Biology, Anatomy & Physiology and Chemistry Teacher at Franklin
CLARION (July 2016) – Riverview Intermediate Unit #6 (RIU6) hosted a four day educational technology course for local educators on 3D Printing in the Classroom. This introductory course, provided by PD Campus, is designed for elementary and secondary school teachers especially those who teach art, technology education, science, and computer science as well as anyone with general interest in 3D printing.
3D printing is an area that has been rapidly growing over the last few years. It can be applied to virtually any field and is currently available in many school districts. A 3D printer works by “printing” objects but instead of using ink, it uses materials such as plastics, metal, and rubber. It scans an object or takes an existing scan of an object and slices it into layers it can then convert into a physical object.
During the course, participants learned how to operate and troubleshoot a 3D printer, and design engaging and practical hands-on projects that are suitable for use with elementary and secondary students in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) and PA Core-aligned curricula. They also learned how to find, download, remix, and print items ranging from jewelry to mechanical gears.
All attendees received a 3D Printrbot Simple printer and 3 graduate level professional development credits. Participants included staff from A-C Valley, Redbank Valley, Franklin, Valley Grove, and RIU#6.
For more information on RIU6 programs and services, visit the website at www.riu6.org or call 814-226-7103.