Integrating three dimensional visualization and additive manufacturing into K-12 classrooms

With the increased availability and affordability of three dimensional visualization and additive manufacturing tools, the opportunity to bring these technologies into the classroom has never been greater. Utilizing 3D scanners, 3D modeling software and 3D printers in the classroom opens the door for hands-on STEM and STEaM education. This paper outlines methods and approaches to introduce these technologies into K-12 classrooms. Including technologies available to educators, methods and approaches to bring these technologies into the classroom and results and lessons learned from in-school pilot programs related to these technologies. Overall this paper is intended to aid educators in bringing these technologies into the classroom to broaden STEM and STEaM education.