PrintLab Pioneer | Kevin Bartok

Hi, I'm Kevin Bartok - Director of Educational Technology at Merchiston International School (China). I graduated with a degree in Industrial Design from Humber College in Toronto, Ontario. During that time, I utilised 3D printing to create prototypes of my ideas. Five years later, I became a Design & Technology teacher. I have been integrating 3D printing into my curriculum ever since because I feel it is a valuable way to make ideas tangible.

Industrial Design Degree

Design & Technology Teacher

How my Students use 3D Printing

Currently, my students from years 7-9 complete a unit of work around 3D printing. I first teach them how to use CAD (Tinkercad for Y7 & Fusion 360 for Y8+), and then let them work through design projects that can be 3D printed. Print Lab will help me to add more depth to my projects. I want to move away from 3D printing 'stuff' and focus on functional products with meaning.

The Importance of 3D Printing in Education

3D printing is incredibly important for education. It offers the opportunity for students to test their ideas very quickly. Often, sketches or CAD models look functional, but when 3D printed they often fail to fulfil their purpose. 3D printing allows students to enter into an iterative design process which closely mimics the design industry.

My Thoughts on PrintLab Classroom

The PrintLab Classroom looks to be a very rigorous and well-thought curriculum tool. I used a sample lesson already and I was impressed with the amount of detail. I will be using this resource with years 7-9 to help build up their knowledge of CAD/CAM.

My Advice for Teachers Getting Started with 3D Printing

If I could provide some advice, it would be to just jump in and do it. There are so many resources available now that can help teachers get into 3D printing. Students need to be using this technology as it will provide them with the skills necessary for future employment.