Fabricating concepts: using custom 3D models to teach abstract concepts
Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education
ISSN: 2050-7003
Article publication date: 26 October 2020
Issue publication date: 12 October 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Many scholars and practitioners have attempted innovative teaching practices in an effort to make complex ideas easier to comprehend and retain. The purpose of this study was to test the relationship between learning and the use of 3D models created to provide physical representations of abstract concepts students could hold and manipulate.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a quasi-experimental design, we test both the students' initial comprehension of the concept and their retention of the information four weeks later when the course concluded.
Findings
Findings included an initial boost in information retention and a likely increased retention of the information, showing promising trajectories for incorporating 3D objects to enhance teaching in the classroom.
Originality/value
This study provides a unique analysis of the use of 3D printing technology to illustrate abstract concepts. This teaching innovation provides another example of how technology can enhance and engage students through active learning. We find that this approach can increase student retention of material.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the Texas State Library and Archives Commission for supporting the SHAPES (Sharing and Helping Academics Prepare for Educational Success) program, which led to the creation of the 3D models in this study.
Citation
McNaughtan, J., Litsey, R. and Morelock, N. (2021), "Fabricating concepts: using custom 3D models to teach abstract concepts", Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, Vol. 13 No. 4, pp. 1085-1096. https://doi.org/10.1108/JARHE-06-2020-0172
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited