The advancement of technology in education has facilitated the integration of innovative tools that are reshaping the way students acquire knowledge and develop practical skills.
Among these tools, 3D printing and electronics have gained particular prominence in disciplines such as engineering, robotics, and design. The maker movement and DIY culture have championed these technologies as catalysts for active learning, fostering creativity, experimentation, and the development of real-world solutions. However, significant challenges persist in effectively embedding these technologies into university curricula, particularly in aligning them with pedagogical methodologies that enhance the learning experience and promote the application of knowledge in authentic contexts.
Given this landscape, it is imperative to investigate how the combination of 3D printing and electronics can enhance student training in engineering and related disciplines.
- To what extent do these technologies support hands-on learning and the acquisition of transversal competencies?
- What instructional methodologies can effectively integrate them to ensure students develop both technical knowledge and essential problem-solving and teamwork skills?
These questions underpin the research presented in this article, which explores the application of the Service-Based Learning methodology to address a specific social need: the development of a robotic hand capable of communicating through sign language.
The findings of this study have the potential to redefine teaching strategies in higher education, providing replicable models across various disciplines. The fusion of emerging technologies with innovative pedagogical approaches not only enriches the learning experience but also equips students to tackle real-world challenges with creative and functional solutions.
Moreover, such projects cultivate social awareness and a commitment to accessibility and inclusion—key aspects in the education of future professionals. This article invites readers to explore how the intersection of technology, pedagogy, and social impact can enhance learning and unlock new opportunities in higher education.
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How to cite: Suardíaz Muro, J., Pérez Gomáriz, M., Cabrera Lozoya, A., & Ove Do Carmo Trolle, R. (2021). Combining 3D printing and electronics as a strategy for improving the learning experience. RIED. Revista Iberoamericana de Educación a Distancia, 24(1), 115–135. https://doi.org/10.5944/ried.24.1.27596
