6 min read
Why 3D printing belongs in the classroom
3D printing connects design, math, science and engineering in a way students can hold. A student who designs a part, prints it and sees why it does not fit learns more about measurement and iteration than from a worksheet. Many schools in Jordan are investing in STEM labs, robotics clubs and maker spaces, and a 3D printer is often at the center of them.
Choosing a classroom printer
For schools, reliability and safety matter more than advanced features:
- FDM technology with PLA filament: clean, low-odor and the easiest material for beginners.
- Automatic bed leveling and calibration so teachers are not spending lessons fixing the machine.
- An enclosed or well-guarded design to keep small hands away from hot and moving parts.
- Simple software, ideally with cloud or network printing so students can send jobs from the computer lab.
- A reasonable build volume; most student projects are small.
- Local support and spare parts so a broken nozzle does not stop the program for weeks.
Safety in the classroom
Place the printer in a ventilated room, on a stable table and away from walkways. Teach students that the nozzle and bed are hot, and that only the teacher removes prints or changes filament for younger age groups. Use PLA for student work and keep resin printers out of primary and middle school classrooms, since liquid resin requires gloves and careful handling.
Software for students
Younger students can start with block-based and browser-based 3D design tools such as Tinkercad, which is free. Older students can move on to parametric CAD software such as Fusion or Onshape, which have free education licenses. The slicer that comes with the printer converts designs into print files.
Budget and running costs
The printer is the main cost. Running costs are low: PLA filament and occasional wear parts such as nozzles and build plates. Plan for a stock of filament in a few colors, a spare nozzle and a spare build plate, and assign one teacher to be responsible for the printer.
Start small and grow
Many schools start with one printer in a science or technology lab, run a pilot with one grade or club, then add printers once teachers are confident. Jordan Automation supplies classroom-friendly printers, PLA filament, 3D pens and spare parts in Amman, with delivery across Jordan. Contact us for a quotation for your school.
Frequently asked questions
What age can students start 3D printing?
Students as young as upper primary can design simple objects in Tinkercad with guidance. 3D pens are a good introduction for younger children.
Is PLA safe for classrooms?
PLA is the most commonly used classroom material because it prints at lower temperatures with little odor. Still print in a ventilated room and supervise students near the printer.
How many printers does a school need?
One printer is enough for a pilot or club. For whole-class projects, schools usually add printers so a class can complete prints within a week.