The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of design thinking instruction on the creativity of preservice teachers. Preservice teachers took part in a two-week unit on 3D printing as a part of their regular instruction in an educational technology course. The experimental group was introduced to design thinking instruction as a framework…

In response to the maker movement, administrators are adding 3D printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and other computer-controlled machinery into school-based makerspaces at a rapid rate. These digital fabrication tools can potentially engage students in hands-on learning across all subject areas. However, adding these extra tools into schools…

This study focuses on the use of American Invention Kits from the Smithsonian Institute in conjunction with a 3D printer. In conjunction with a large dataset from a study funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), this innovative research focuses on the effect the digital fabrication curriculum unit has on gifted and talented students'…

Advances in mechanical and electrical engineering and an evolving workforce have prompted education systems in the United States to incorporate technology as both a subject of learning and a pedagogical tool. The rising workforce must be literate in the use, maintenance, and creation of technologies as more labor and service jobs become automated.…