MakerBot is set to host a series of Makeathons this summer throughout the U.S. that will help educators to introduce STEAM learning to their students and schools through 3D printing.
Research shows that only a third of US teens have considered STEAM-related careers even though it is reported that these STEAM jobs make up 80% of the fastest growing careers in the country. MakerBot believes that by engaging students early, via 3D printing, educators can change the way their students view future STEAM careers.
The idea is to to give educators the opportunity to collaborate with creative people, network, make lesson plans, learn new skills and gain access to new tools.
Last summer, MakerBot enlisted the Thingiverse community to create STEAM-focused projects which resulted in projects like the Go-Go Airboat to test buoyancy and the Wind Energy Stored In Gravity project to create awareness about renewable energy.
MakerBot is inviting both educators and anyone over the age of 18 to participate in this summer’s events program. Educators will leave with projects that can be easily integrated into their classrooms to support STEAM-based learning.
The admission fee for the makeathon is $50. All proceeds will go towards funding a MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer for schools serving low-income students. The first Makeathons dates are:
- New York City: 21-22 May
- San Francisco: 4-5 June
- Chicago: 11-12 June
- Washington, D.C.: 18-19 June
- Denver, CO: 25 June
MakerBot will provide access to its 3D printers and they’re also working in partnership with SOLIDWORKS, Ozobot and Sphero to offer the best tools for engaging students in STEAM learning.
