Effects of 3D Printing and Design Software on Students' Overall Performance

Researchers found that student-centered, technology-integrated learning environments help to produce students who are better able to think critically, solve problems, collaborate with others, and engage deeply in the learning process. Understanding the impact of technology and finding the best ways to integrate technology into the classroom is critical. Because of this, an investigation was conducted to determine whether the use of technology, specifically 3D printers and 3D design software, in a summer camp setting had a positive effect on students' motivation, interests, and mathematical and technical skills. Five-point Likert scale pre- and post- surveys were administered to the participants in two summer camps. A paired-sample t-test and one sample t-test were run to see the effect of 3D printers and 3D design software. In addition, Cohen's d effect sizes were calculated to see practical importance. The results revealed a statistically significant increase in some mathematical skills, motivation, and technical skills. The implication of such results will be discussed in detail.