PrintLab Pioneer

My name is Becky Wynne and I am a 5th - 8th grade Technology Enrichment and Project Lead the Way teacher at Maryville Middle School in Maryville, MO. I originally got involved with 3D printing in my Design and Modeling class, but the excitement quickly spread, so I began incorporating it in my other classes, as well.

Project Lead the Way Teacher

How my Students use 3D Printing

In previous years, students primarily used 3D printing to create puzzle cubes, snowflakes, key-chains, bubble wands, and customized pieces for their robotics projects. Due to grant funding, we acquired three additional 3D printers in the last few months, so I’m eager to expand student design opportunities. Over the summer I discovered PrintLab, and can’t wait to incorporate the amazing lessons into all of my classes. In particular, I’m excited to provide my 7th grade students with a project based learning experience designing and creating assistive devices for students in need at MMS, as well as patients in the local hospital, and area nursing homes.

The Importance of 3D Printing in Education

3D printing provides so many valuable teaching opportunities to get students future ready. Students are engaged and motivated to create and solve authentic problems pertinent to their lives, and experience the design process first hand. They develop their critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and problem solving skills while expressing their creativity.

My Thoughts on PrintLab Classroom

PrintLab Classroom is the perfect resource to help build your confidence in 3D printing. The curriculum guides you through various problem based learning activities with real world connections. I plan to incorporate lessons from PrintLab Classroom in every grade level I teach. It’s the 3D printing resource I’ve been looking for!

My Advice for Teachers Getting Started with 3D Printing

My advice on 3D printing would be to start creating! It’s the perfect platform to let students take charge of their learning, solve real world problems, and learn future-building skills, all while being motivated and engaged doing it!