PrintLab, a UK based 3D printing reseller, has announced the launch of additional language options for its PrintLab Classroom learning program. The first new language to be available will be Polish, with Spanish and Chinese versions set to launch later this year. The Polish version was done in collaboration with Polish 3D Technology & Education supplier, Paxer.
The program aims to to educate students in 3D printing, in order to boost interest in science, technology, engineering, maths (STEM) based careers.
“After a great deal of initial interest and success, we are very pleased to be able to offer our curriculum to Polish students and educators,” said Nick Mayor, co-founder of PrintLab.
“Our mission has always been to prepare the next generation for their future careers by addressing the widening skills gap and we are now able to do this across multiple regions. Our focus is on finding partners that share our belief and vision and in Paxer, we have found a motivated team that has technology in education at its core.”
3D printing education
PrintLab’s mission is to support the growth of 3D printing in schools by providing them with an educational 3D printing environment. In the past, the company partnered with the National STEM Learning Center, to provide more UK schools with 3D printing technology.
PrintLab initially launched its PrintLab Classroom learning program in January 2018. The program aims to educate children in additive manufacturing (AM) technology by integrating it into core STEM topics. By learning AM skills at a young age (8-15), the school curriculum can promote further development of 3D printing education.
PrintLab Classroom provides projects, workbooks, tutorials and teacher training guides for 3D printing to encourage student to follow a career in STEM. The program also comes with downloadable presentations, and step-by-step lessons for project preparation and delivery.
Additionally, the program includes supplementary information on 3D printing and modelling and tutorials for popular EdTech software such as Tinkercad, SketchUp and Meshmixer.
Paxer, now a reseller of PrintLab will offer the translated curriculum as part of a complete educational bundle. Now that the program is available in more languages, students in other countries can being developing AM skills.
In regards to the new polish version of the program, founder of Paxer, Grzegorz Papych, stated,
“With great joy we accepted the start and the possibility of offering the PrintLab program in Poland. For years we have been offering modern solutions for education, and 3D printing technology has almost limitless possibilities. We are fascinated and we are happy to inspire future generations together with PrintLab!”
Further integration of 3D printing education
In an effort to encourage further development of AM skills in students, several companies have created their own 3D printing technology educational programs. MakerGirl, a non-profit organization that uses 3D printing to teach young girls STEM skills, recently announced plans to expand its operation.
In Los Angeles, the non-profit initiative, Project Magnify, offers students after-school 3D printing workshops to encourage STEM education.
Similarly, 3D printer manufacturer, MakerBot, launched its MakerBot Starter Lab, which provides schools with 3D printers, supplies, and software, for educational usage. 3D printing and design platform, MyMiniFactory also has a growing range of learning resources for 3D printing.
“The aim is to inspire students and teachers around the world to adopt technology into lessons. We have started with Polish, however that is just the beginning.” said Mayor, “Spanish and Chinese translation is currently being undertaken which is part of our plan of inspiring minds on a global scale and providing teachers worldwide with comprehensive lesson packages, developed alongside teachers.”
Looking for the latest news in 3D printing? Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter. Also, follow us on Twitter, and like us on Facebook.
Looking for a new job? Search open opportunities and apply for 3D Printing Jobs. Employers can also make a free profile to advertise your latest vacancies.
Featured image shows classroom presentations for PrintLabs. Image via PrintLab.
