3DP TEACHER - implementation of 3D Printing in future education

All organisations that agreed to take part in 3DP TEACHER project, recognize the meaning and significance of the impact that 3D printing may have on many aspects of our lives and work in near future. 3DP market is developing fast, with its applications found in more and more different areas like architecture, medicine, and industry. Increasing number of businesses are interested in making use of its potential, hence it is reasonable to assume that also the number of jobs in this sector will be on the rise. The Industry 4.0, and particularly technology of 3D printing (3DP) is entering schools curricula all over the world, and its potential is becoming widely recognized. Many teachers consider this innovation in the sector welcome and necessary, but they very often lack proper technical and methodological knowledge to embrace this new technology. In order to change this situation, the aim of the project is to improve the digital competences of teachers in relation to implementing of 3D printing in education. This aim will be achieved through:- developing 3DP Teachers' Guidebook (covering case studies, lesson plans with 3DP, recommendations on possible implementation)- developing 3D modelling course for Teachers- developing of online environment for teachers interested in applying 3DP solutions - initiating the network of 3DP teacher expertsProject’s objective is also to facilitate cooperation between schools, policy makers in the field of educations and business sector. This cooperation is crucial from the point of view of future implementation of 3DP. Target groups: - teachers from secondary schools interested in innovations and development of their digital skills in teaching- students interested in new technologies and pursuing career in rapidly developing technology market- school managers/directors, officials responsible for education.To encourage teachers’ involvement and contribution, AEMRN, GD and SP interested in 3D printing became partners in this project. To ensure the effective transfer of technology and proper management of tasks and activities the schools will cooperate with business partners. As a result, an effective and mutually supportive partnership was established.The activities planned within 3DP TEACHER project lead to the formation of two intellectual outputs: “3DP Teachers’ Guidebook” and “Innovative Teachers Environment (ITE)”. The first one is to show teachers possibilities of 3DP implementation, examples of good practices, recommendations on methodology, hardware and software tips, as well as safety issues. The second will serve the creation of international teachers’ experts’ community, sharing their experiences and ideas on how to enhance the teaching process with 3D printing and create relevant 3D models. Their active involvement in the community will contribute to the creation of database of 3D models to use on lessons, lesson plans involving the 3D printing, methodological and technical aspects of using 3D printing for educational purposes.The expected impact is that the 3DP TEACHER project will significantly and in sustainable way influence participants, participating organisations, target groups and other relevant stakeholders. The desired impact is that teachers will improve their digital competences in relation to implementing of 3D printing and also that decision makers and teachers will understand and incorporate 3D printing in the process of teaching young people and that in effect, prepare them for the needs of labour market. The impact will be significant at all levels but especially on local and regional levels in which partners have access to schools and decision makers.