Investigating the Integration of 3-D Printing Technologies in K–12 Schools

• In Event: Poster Session 11
  In Poster Session: Division A Graduate Student Poster Session

Abstract

3-D printing has the potential to advance teaching and learning in a way that information technology has failed. However, little is known about the integration of 3-D printing in K-12 schools. The purpose of this paper is to report findings from an ongoing study examining use of 3-D printers in selected schools in New Jersey. Using grounded theory methodology in data collection and analysis and purposive sampling, data was collected from ten teachers and technology staff members in four schools using 3-D printers with students. Themes emerged from interviews suggesting that individual teachers play a key role in leading 3-D printing integration and school organizational structure plays a key role in diffusion of integration.
Teacher Leadership; School organization; Technology Integration

Author

• Bridget Theresa Looney, Montclair State University