Abstract:

The integration of digital fabrication technologies, such as FabLab equipment, into education creates new opportunities for developing students’ creativity, problem-solving skills, and practical competencies. However, teachers face significant challenges when attempting to effectively integrate these technologies into the teaching process, including limited technological knowledge, lack of time, and insufficient opportunities for professional collaboration.

This study aims to design a virtual FabLab environment that supports teacher collaboration, resource sharing, and professional development. The research is based on a quantitative study involving teachers from different educational institutions in Lithuania. Data were collected through an online questionnaire to identify teachers’ needs, challenges, and expectations related to FabLab integration.

The findings reveal that the most significant challenges for teachers to integrate FabLab technologies into the curriculum are the lack of methodological resources, limited time for lesson preparation, and insufficient opportunities for peer support. Teachers expressed a strong need for a structured environment that combines access to practical teaching materials with opportunities for communication and experience sharing.

Based on these results, a virtual FabLab environment was designed, integrating functionalities that support collaborative learning, including structured resource sharing, discussion forums, and peer interaction tools. The platform enables teachers to exchange teaching materials, discuss practical challenges, and collaboratively develop educational activities.

The proposed solution provides a structured and accessible digital space that supports continuous professional development and self-directed learning. This study highlights the importance of integrated digital environments in enhancing effective and sustainable use of innovative technologies in education.

Keywords:

FabLab, teacher collaboration, virtual learning environment, educational technology, professional development, resource sharing.