Construct3D 2017

The frame factors of a k-12 environment are unique in nature for integrating new technologies into the curriculum. 3D-printing is also a unique area which lies in the intersection of science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. Such an opportunity to integrate curriculum needs a paradigm shift in resource planning in a k-12 environment. Traditional sources of money, allocation and training of manpower, usage and maintenance of machines or equipment, and time planning are inadequate to meet the challenges and reap the rewards in this integration process. The authors will share their experience in this area of integrating 3D printing into the curriculum and the changes they made in resource planning and maintenance. This has been a living breathing process that has evolved over a period of three years. It has involved the participation of all the stake holders to make it a sustainable learning environment that can integrate the advancement of technology into curriculum. Currently it has reached a threshold where it has started attracting even those who were originally apprehensive to join the process.