Makerspace 3D Printing continues to grow in application across disciplines for enhanced Teaching and Learning

Since its inception in 2015, the Makerspace 3D printing facility has expanded to address the growing needs of students and staff. This is particularly true as this technology is becoming more accessible, especially with the movement of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. This movement has ensured that the application of this additive manufacturing technology is expanding across all disciplines. Lecturers have through their enhanced understanding of this technology, identified needs of teaching and learning methods to apply this technology in their courses across various disciplines.

As we progress and make scientific advancements, the enablement of students’ knowledge to apply this technology becomes crucial, indicating its vital role in teaching and learning. It is no longer limited to disciplines such as engineering, or to individuals with access to this technology. By enabling students to use this within their studies and ensure access in an exciting environment such as the Makerspace, tremendous outputs have been seen from students, especially in their capacity to create innovative new advancements within their fields by utilizing 3D technologies. Applications of this technology during the first semester has included fungal structures from the internationally recognized Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), educational toys from students of the Department of Informatics, optical sensor housing cases from the Department of Electronic Engineering, parts for student projects from the Department of Mechanical Engineering and several others.

Since the Makerspace is a central hub at the University offering 3D printing as a service, a vital aspect of its function is also guidance in best practices, application and roles this technology plays within their frame of expertise. In light of this, the Makerspace has expanded capacity in terms of the number of printers, as well as the capacity these machines can deliver to align with this goal. These services, however, also requires competent staff, who continue to enhance their skills to address the changing needs and environment that is the Makerspace.