3D printed models to enhance engineering student engagement and learning

ABSTRACT: Engineering students require strong skills in problem-solving, communication, research and presentation. Traditional strategies to teach 3D modelling by conventional orthogonal 2D drawings are not particularly effective to guide students in their development of spatial knowledge. Students benefit from an innovative engagement approach to connecting engineering theories to industry practice through handling and manipulating the all-round spatial views of 3D printed models, a student confidence-building approach. A new student engagement framework for student learning is developed in this paper using the students' and peers' reactions obtained from various sources including the online evaluations through CQU’s Student Experience Survey (SES). The impact of this framework in student motivation, engagement and curiosity in learning is assessed. The student satisfaction data obtained from Structural Mechanics unit were low initially. With the introduction of innovative student engagement initiatives using 3D printed models, the Structural Mechanics unit’s student satisfaction quickly improved. Both qualitative and quantitative student data are used to triangulate student learning and satisfaction. This enhances not only novel teaching innovations and evaluation, but also stimulates the interest of readers outside the context where the work is produced.