Banaglore: MakerBot Asia Pacific & Japan (MakerBot APJ), a local division of desktop 3D printing leader MakerBot, today (15 Nov 2016) announced its collaboration with Veltech University to offer a unique 3D printing program to over 800 middle and high school teachers in India. Veltech University and MakerBot developed the program in collaboration with local governments in India to help teachers better prepare students for the jobs of tomorrow. The new program provides training on how to use 3D printers in the classroom for project-based learning, emphasizing design thinking, creativity, and problem solving.
Developed by experts of MakerBot the program makes learning immersive through sight and touch and inspires students to tackle engineering and related problems in real-world scenarios. Teachers who participate in the program will be provided with hands-on training in CAD software, design for additive manufacturing, operating MakerBot 3D printers, and integrating 3D printing into their existing curriculum, particularly in the areas of in the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math).
“Veltech recognizes the importance of teaching critical thinking and STEAM- related skills. We are dedicated to building a new education foundation in India through a more interactive and engaging approach with 3D design and printing,” commented Dr. U. Chandrasekhar, Pro Vice Chancellor of Veltech University. “Together with MakerBot, a leader in desktop 3D printing solutions, we are delighted to venture on a transformational journey and pass on our success and experience to other like-minded professionals in the academia.”
Organized as a corporate social responsibility initiative, the 3D printing program will be conducted across different cities in India over a four-week period. Eligible teaching staff has been nominated from selected schools and reviewed by local education boards to join the program at designated seminars for a three-day training session.
“3D design and 3D printing skills are already valued resources in all industries, and 3D printing is becoming part of the way company’s prototype and manufacture things. We believe this program is a first of its kind in India, and we are proud to work with Veltech University to provide students all over India access to 3D printing, enabling students to tackle real-world problems and master the same technology that is driving the jobs of tomorrow,” commented Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director and Head of MakerBot, Stratasys India.
“Programs of this kind help teachers to inspire students for STEAM careers and render the entire learning process a joyful experience,” Mrs. M. Pari, Mathematics teacher of Maharishi Vidya Mandir said.
