Abstract:

In the field of civil engineering education, incorporating cutting-edge teaching tools is now essential to enhance student’s overall learning experiences. With advancements in 3D printing technology, the ability to produce detailed physical models has become attainable. This offers endless opportunities to create various 3D models for hands-on visual learning. This study looks into the use of 3D-printed models as an innovative method to improve student's understanding of civil engineering concepts. The impact of incorporating 3D-printed models into the curriculum and their effectiveness in explaining complex civil engineering concepts were evaluated. The research methodology included creating a set of 3D-printed models that depict various areas of civil engineering, such as structural engineering, environmental engineering, and hydrology. It was followed by the demonstration of those models in the second-year civil engineering classrooms at United Arab Emirates University. Finally, students were surveyed to understand their views and opinions on incorporating 3D-printed models into the learning experience. The survey included a total of eighteen questions with seventeen Likert scales and one open-ended question. Student’s perspectives and academic progress were evaluated to measure the effectiveness of this educational intervention by employing both qualitative and quantitative analysis. Students had a positive response toward the use of 3D models for lecture demonstrations. Almost all students strongly agreed that the 3D models aided their visualization capability of complex concepts, helped in connecting the theory with practical application, increased engagement as well as interest in learning the engineering concepts, and assisted in better retention of concepts. In general, students agreed that the 3D-printed models aided their learning experience of complex civil engineering concepts.

Keywords:

3D printing, civil engineering, classroom, teaching, learning.