Prints are Endless - Club by Lucas

Prints are Endless - Club by Lucas - September 2019 Scholarship Essay

I have a vision that will help the minds of other kids know what it’s like to design, code, and 3D print. This club would be called Prints are Endless and it will be an after school program that teaches students design solutions to real problems using modeling software and 3D printers. 3D printing is a technology that has recently revolutionized the way learning in schools takes place. This technology allows digitally saved files to be converted into three-dimensional physical objects. Most schools are still in the early stages of implementing this experiential and innovative technology. 3D printing enhances hands-on learning and learning by doing since it allows students to design and produce three-dimensional models. It also provides opportunities for interactive class activities, school projects as well as in extracurricular activities. The club will also increase students’ technical and problem-solving skills, exposes them to STEM career possibilities, and reinforces math and science principles taught during the school day.
Biology education has also become more practical and real thanks to the use of 3D printing. Some of the school projects that students can engage themselves in are diverse. For instance, body organs such as the heart can be 3D printed by the students for learning purposes. Allowing the students to examine the cross-section of the modeled heart closely has a far-reaching impact on their understanding of biological concepts. The students can also integrate their biology projects with technology. Recreation of the bio mechanics of an insect to demonstrate how it performs in flight is possible. When the students get a first-hand experience, it raises their awareness and understands how things around them work.
The art of 3D printing is making great strides towards students learning and active engagement. In architecture, this technique exposes them to various topics in architecture which involves design, problem-solving and creating prototypes of projects. Students can take up bridge designing projects and model them using the 3D printer. This will help the students from an early age to familiarize themselves with concepts and processes that entail manufacturing and design.
3D printing is a tool that can be used to transform the world tremendously through prosthetic. Medical students can take part in projects such as making prosthetic hands. Although this may seem one small project, it is a very important part of what 3D printing is capable of. Creating a usable hand for a real patient is both fulfilling besides enabling another human being live life like everyone else. 3D printing can also be used for printing prosthetic for animals that have missing limbs. For example, a dog with missing forelimbs can have a designed mobility cart that can give him a better life. This idea can’t just drift away because no one how to put any thought into it. I believe kids don’t have a good understanding of this technology that can help better our lives. This is why it needs to be shown and taught to others and that’s why I want to create a club like this to open the minds around us and express how important this invention can help us.