Professional Development

3D Printer Maker, PD Provider Partner on Training, Microbadging

• By Michael Hart
• 06/28/16

The PD Learning Network (PDLN), which provides online professional development to K-12 educators, is partnering with 3D printer maker Dremel to provide both training and certification of completion to teachers who want to become proficient in the technology.

With the purchase of each Dremel Idea Builder 3D40-EDU kit, the company will provide free training provided by PDLN designed to help them learn how to operate the equipment. The training will include videos, articles, lesson plans, school case studies and hands-on learning opportunities.

"One of our most important responsibilities as an education technology provider is supporting teachers as they learn how to implement new tools in their classrooms," said Dremel 3D Education Manager George Velez. "Partnering with a professional development organization is emblematic of our mission to ensure 3D printing is applied in a purposeful way that enhances students' understanding of STEAM [science, technology, education, art and math] principles."

Upon completing assessments that demonstrate mastery of the technology and the ability to integrate it into instruction, teachers will earn a digital microbadge that they can share with colleagues, parents, administrators and potential employers.

"PDLN's standards of rigor in microcredential badges ensure teacher mastery and effective instructional use of 3D printing technology," said PDLN CEO Jennifer Gibson.

Along with the teacher training, purchasers of the Dremel Idea Builder 3D printer receive a one-year warranty and additional personalized teacher support.