Cougars Creative Cave

Funded Aug 25, 2022

When we first learned that our Donors Choose project, Cougars Creative Cave, was fully funded we were so grateful and ecstatic. We put our 3D printer together and we were anxious to begin using it. It took some time to plan how to present the 3D printer to the student body, so we decided to start small. I first introduced the 3D printer to my 27 Library Practice students. I gave my students the task of creating an original object that will be useful and/or relevant to others. They came up with many creative ideas such as key chains, hooks, bookmarks, pencil and cell phone holders to name a few. They also came up with many fun objects to create as well. In the process there were many trial and error moments. It was during these trial-and-error moments that they learned the most.

During the designing stage, students initially had a difficult time trying to come up with original ideas for useful objects. Since this was new to them, I modified the task to create an object and that is when they came up with the objects mentioned above. With continued practice in designing, printing and constructive feedback, I have no doubt they will come up with some very useful and original ideas. In addition to their personal continued exploration and creating, my students will, in turn, teach other students how to design, create, and print their own objects. This is the stage where we are currently.

Through this student-centered process, some students worked independently, and some students worked in small groups. They asked many questions, came up with designs and began printing. I told them they were becoming inventors and as inventors there may be some failures. Failing on the first try and trying again is expected and acceptable. As the failures happened, students became even more motivated to go back to the drawing board and adjust their designs. They have started to look around more, observing the world around them, to wonder, to inquire and to think about the cause and effect of what their new design might have on others.

With the 3D printer students have grown in so many ways. They have learned to troubleshoot, cooperate with and to listen to one another; to ask all kinds of questions and to think critically. 3D printing provides endless amounts of learning and discovering opportunities. My students are more excited to learn and explore since working with the 3D printer. They feel accomplished and challenged to develop something new and/or something that will help enhance their understanding of new concepts in a three-dimensional way. As an educator it is rewarding to see students take ownership of their learning through the use of our new 3D printer.

My students and I are so honored and grateful for the generous support that made it possible to add a 3Dprinter to our MakerSpace. Creativity has begun and I cannot wait to see where it takes each and every student and each and every idea.”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Krieg