Guidance and toolkits for using a 3D printer
A collection of guidance and toolkits that have been produced to support the use of 3D printing in the classroom.
How to prepare a model for 3D printing
This lesson explains how to prepare a model for 3D printing. It looks at creating an exportable file (STL) from Fusion 360 and describes the key settings that students will need to understand when slicing a file (I.e. infill, layer height, raft). This resource is useful to those not using Fusion 360, but you may wish to replace slides with your own CAD programme.
How to slice a model for 3D printing
This lesson looks at the process of slicing a file ready for 3D printing. It provides an overview of key 3D printing terms (I.e. infill, density, raft) and explains the importance of simulation in completing a print successfully. This resource uses UPStudio software as its example but the key terms should be applicable to a range of slicing software.
Comparing 3D printing materials
This lesson looks at different types of filament that can be used in polymer filament 3D printers. It compares ABS and PLA and asks students to discuss the sustainability of the 3D printing process.
PrintLab’s 3D Printing Guide for Teachers
A comprehensive, 60-page PDF guide detailing everything you need to know about 3D printing in the classroom. The chapters included in this guide are:
- An Introduction to 3D Printing
- Getting 3D Printable Files
- Preparing Files for 3D Printing
- 3D Printing Tips for the Classroom
- Integrating 3D Printing into the Curriculum
Additional free 3D printing resources available from PrintLab include:
- Make your School Name in Braille Lesson Plan - https://bit.ly/2IZUhoO
- Designing for 3D Printing Online Course - https://bit.ly/2J5bMo8
Makerbot 3D printing educators guide and project ideas
This Makerbot educations guidebook supports the users of 3D printers to understand the basics on how 3D printers work and how to use them, including a crash course on 3D design. It provides nine, 3D printing lesson plans to integrate the technology into the classroom, bringing STEM and project based learning to a variety of subjects and grades. It also supports teachers to develop their own 3D printing lessons and go further with 3D printing.
