2023 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Board 171: Project-Based Learning Using NASA Design Concepts for 3D Printing Makerspace Development to Support Pre-college STEM Education

Presented at Pre-College Engineering Education Division (PCEE) Poster Session

One of the most important aspects of STEM education is the engineering design process. When it comes to the design process, however, STEM education from kindergarten through 12th grade frequently overlooks the significance of modeling. The quick reproduction capability of 3D printers can be used to support modeling during the engineering design phase. This research will investigate the usefulness of incorporating 3D printing technology into STEM project-based learning activities in terms of improving STEM learners grasp of the engineering design process, particularly modeling. Six use categories are defined and presented because of research into the application of 3D printing in classrooms settings: a) teaching STEM learners about 3D printing; b) teaching practitioners about 3D printing; c) as a support tool during teaching; d) producing artifacts that aid learning; and e) supporting outreach efforts. Evidence of 3D printing-based teaching techniques can be discovered in each of these six areas, and recommendations for further research and policy are given.

Keywords: Project based learning, Design Concepts, 3D Printing Makerspace Development, Support Pre-College STEM Education, Engineering, Engineering Technology

Authors

Dr. Etahe Johnson University of Maryland Eastern Shore [biography]

Dr. Etahe Johnson is an Academic Support Coordinator and Articulation Liaison for the School of Business and Technology at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES, located in Princess Anne, Maryland. Dr. Johnson also serves as a an adjunct professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering Technology. Dr. Johnson earned her Ed.D in Organization Leadership and Innovation from Wilmington University. She received a master's degree in Technology and Engineering from Iowa State University and bachelor's of science in Manufacturing Systems from North Carolina A&T State University. Dr. Johnson is currently serves as the President of Women in Technology, Management, and Applied Technology (WITMAE) and secretary of the National Transportation Review Board. Dr. Johnson has publications in both national peer-reviewed journals involving aviation and technology education.
Dr. Willie L. Brown Jr. University of Maryland Eastern Shore [biography]

Dr. Willie L. Brown, Jr. is the Interim Vice Provost for Institutional Planning and Quality; and an Associate Professor of Engineering and Aviation Sciences at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) (Princess Anne, Maryland). Dr. Brown received dual bachelors’ degrees regarding a B.S. in Aviation Science and a B.S. in Computer Science from Elizabeth City State University. Dr. Brown received a M.S. in Software Engineering (Aeronautics) from Embry-
Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) and through the partnership program established by ERAU of aeronautics’ disciplinaries, he received a Ph.D. in Business Administration specializing in Homeland Security Leadership and Policy (Aviation Safety and Security) from Northcentral University. Dr. Brown also has received a M.S. in Data Analytics from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Dr. Brown is currently obtaining a M.S in Strategic Communication at the University of Maryland Global Campus.
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