Housatonic Community College has received a $200,000
National Science Foundation grant to develop teaching modules that will
enhance the teaching a variety of science, technology, engineering and
math courses with the aid of three-dimensional solid modeling software.
The modules will allow students to create 3-D objects through the use
of three-dimensional equations, thus bringing the educational
experience from the theoretical realm to the real-world.
The modules will allow students to see the results of their equations
in 3-D on computer screens. Then, using 3-D printers, the students will
be able to create an object they can hold in their hand the equation
they just developed
The use of the software in multidisciplinary courses mirrors the
real-world practices. In industry, the design of a product is a
multidisciplinary effort in which engineers and technologists integrate
the laws of physics, optics, chemistry and thermodynamics and use
algorithmic technical computing to analyze the design.
However, instruction in these technical fields has been along rigid
disciplinary lines. HCC’s software modules will break down these
disciplinary barriers.
The modules being developed will be tested, assessed and disseminated
to the state’s 12 community colleges and four state universities.
Ultimately, this method of instruction and learning will be spread to
high school students and educators.