The Use of 3D Technologies to Support Computational Thinking in STEM Education

Abstract

Computational thinking (CT) is increasingly emerging as a thinking skill to support the development of 21st century skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, or technology literacy, essential for students to become successful in an increasingly complex society. Educators are always looking for new strategies for developing these skills in students. Three-dimensional (3D) printing and scanning technologies are sufficiently mature and economically accessible to be used at the school level. By using 3D technologies, students explore, invent, discover, and engage in real problems and situations. This study explores the use of 3D printing technologies in a secondary school in Athens over the course of two school years. The study investigates if 3D technologies can support the development of CT skills in students.