3D Printing at School and Makerspaces

Gr 9 Up—Noting that our world is "facing changes comparable to the Industrial Revolution of the 1700s–1800s," this series keys in on the ways 3-D printing is influencing design and manufacturing, how job training is changing, and how society is benefiting from this technology. Medical applications include using biological materials to create models of organs for doctors to practice surgical procedures, and artificial replacements for coral reefs are solving ocean habitat deterioration. The strength of the series is in the contributors, such as Peg Robinson, who shares detailed knowledge of materials, especially plastics, metals, and biodegradable options, and Ian Chow-Miller, a middle school robotics teacher whose personal experience and tips for assembling and operating 3-D printers for educational purposes make it accessible to teachers and students. Other titles focus on research and development, business, art and design, and more. The authors use an engaging and conversational tone, and thoughtfully placed photos, charts, and color-blocked vocabulary boxes also aid comprehension. A generous number of appended resources enlarges this collection's contribution to one's knowledge base.