The Impact of 3D Printing on Architectural Student Design Skills

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the potential of using 3D printers in architectural education and their effectiveness in developing students' creative design skills. Two groups of architecture students with different levels of spatial perception created physical models for an airport project using 3D printers and traditional methods in the "Project 7" course . The findings revealed that integrating 3D printers into architectural education can play a significant role in enhancing students' design skills and creativity. The 3D printer group significantly improved their spatial perception by utilizing 3D printing technology to materialize and visualize their designs. This enabled students to generate complex geometries and original designs. 3D printer usage also contributed to developing students' problem-solving skills and creativity. The flexibility offered by 3D printers allowed students to easily experiment with different design ideas and find the most suitable solution. In addition to the findings obtained in the research, course instructors also observed that 3D printer users developed their design skills and problem-solving abilities to a greater extent than students using traditional methods. 3D printer users also maintained a higher level of motivation and interest in the project. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that integrating 3D printers into architectural education can be an effective tool for developing students' design skills and creativity. 3D printer usage helps students improve their spatial perception, develop problem-solving skills, utilize their creativity, and increase their motivation towards the project. Further comprehensive research should be conducted and integration with different disciplines should be investigated to gain more knowledge about the impact of 3D printers on architectural education. This will allow for a more effective use of 3D printers in architectural education and further development of students' design skills and creativity.