3D printers add a new dimension to technology

Students at Hutt Intermediate School are learning about technology from a different angle after being introduced to 3D printing.

The group of 150 students and teachers attended a presentation where New Zealand ‘Fused Filament Fabrication’ 3D printer expert Gordon Dykes from fre3formDTM explained the different types of 3D printing and their limitations, how 3D printing is being used today, and the possibilities for the future.

Students were also educated by Dykes on how to equip themselves for a future that favours the STEM subjects of science, technology, engineering and maths.“Young minds come up with concepts that show great imagination but these can often be dismissed by adults,” Dykes says.

“Given the chance, these often novel ideas, can lead to real breakthroughs in technology.

“Teachers today have the opportunity to teach maths and science not just on a theoretical basis but with real practical applications that will set students up for the future.”

In February this year, Hutt Intermediate School teachers Vanessa Harrold, an IT teacher, and Steve Polaczuk, a Hard Materials teacher, attended a public 3D printing introductory session.

Deciding the subject of 3D printing would benefit their students and complement the school’s technology programme, they invited Dykes to the school.

Due to the success of the 3D printing presentation, Dykes will be returning to the school to present to further groups of students.