There have been many technological and curriculum transformations of the classroom since formal education was created. But two of the biggest changes in tech and lesson planning are having a unique convergence.

For many educators, what was once touted as STEM has transformed into STEAM, with art taking its place of importance alongside science, technology, engineering, and math. Students focused on art bring unique and creative problem-solving methods to the challenges of today, as well as worthwhile cultural insights and commentary, too.

One of the ways to teach a new subject is to put learning into practice or doing. And now students focused on the “A” in STEAM are able to immediately execute their ideas, to put them into practice, thanks to the widespread use and availability of 3D printers. 3D printing enables just that, utilizing a new printer to help create new manufacturing, art, and other items—all in real time. What does that mean for teaching STEAM? This graphic can help.

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Using 3D Printers for Your STEM Program

Art at a Science Museum
The Part Arts Play in Today's Learning