I’m sorry. That title’s very misleading, but so is Solidoodle U as it is not so much an accredited four-year university, but a pair of discounted 3D printer packages for educators. Solidoodle’s 3D printer deal is described, by the company, as a “comprehensive program” to help teachers get 3D printing into their classrooms.
The 3D printer manufacturer has developed two education packages, for its 3rd and 4th generation 3D printer models. The Solidoodle 4 package, with a value of $1085, includes the 4th gen model Solidoodle 3D printer and two 2 pound spools of filament for $899. The Solidoodle 3 package, with an $842 value, includes the 3rd gen Solidoodle model with one 2 pound spool of filament for $699. In addition to the machines, participation in Solidoodle U comes with free access to a 3D printing curriculum and the company’s file sharing site, Solidoodles.com, where educators can share lesson plans with one another.
Solidoodle’s CEO, Sam Cervantes, explains the motivation behind the program:
3D printing lets a student develop an idea from initial concept through design and iteration phases to final tested parts, all from a computer. Teachers have been some of our earliest customers because they recognize our products as powerful tools for hands-on learning across a broad range of subject areas, from art and design to science and engineering. Solidoodle U expands our products’ accessibility for the classroom with even more affordable options and new resources developed for educators.
Discounts for students and teachers are a great way to increase a technology’s accessibility. I hope that lowered prices for Solidoodle’s printers make it easier for educators to introduce 3D printing to their classrooms.
Source: PR Web
