Oct 16, 2017 | By Tess

Konica Minolta Business Solutions, a division of the eponymous global tech company, has announced that it will be launching a free 30-day trial 3D printing program for schools across the United States. Through a partnership with tool and 3D printer manufacturer Dremel, Konica Minolta is aiming to make additive manufacturing in the classroom more accessible.

With the slogan “try before you buy,” Konica Minolta’s 3D printing program seems like an excellent way for schools to see whether they should invest in a 3D printer, or for lower income schools to at least try the technology out.

By applying for the free trial, educational institutions will be sent a Dremel 3D Idea Builder 3D printer for a period of 30 days, after which they can choose to send the printer back or buy it.

The aim of the promotion is to demonstrate how 3D printing in a classroom context can introduce a more dynamic type of learning for students. “By incorporating this technology in the classroom, abstract concepts are transformed into physical models, helping students make connections between what they’re learning in class and the real world,” says the company.

More than that, however, exposing kids to 3D printing and 3D modeling at a young age can inspire interest in STEM, providing a strong basis for learning more advanced design and 3D printing-related skills in the future.

“Students benefit from hands-on learning which enhances critical thinking and decision-making skill sets and empowers them to embrace innovative technology,” adds Konica Minolta. “All of which better prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow. Teachers and schools benefit from increased test scores, retention, and student engagement.”

Let’s take a look at the 3D printer that will be featured through the 30-day free trial: Dremel’s 3D Idea Builder. Dremel first unveiled its Idea Builder 3D printer in 2014, but it was in 2016, with the release of an upgraded Idea Builder 3D40 3D printer, that the company really began to focus on the classroom and STEM sector.

At that time, Dremel also launched the Dremel Dreams program, which is essentially a 3D printing ecosystem aimed at seamlessly integrating 3D printing technologies into the classroom through tutorials, lesson plans, 3D models, and more.

Through Dremel’s partnership with Konica Minolta, classrooms across the United States can now apply for a 3D printer free trial. The initiative, which has been effective since October 1, will be running until July 1, 2018. Interested educational institutions can find more information about how to apply here.

 

 

Posted in 3D Printer Company

 

 

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