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The Frustrations of Digital Fabrication: An Auto/Ethnographic Exploration of '3D Making' in School
- Source :
-
International Journal of Technology and Design Education . Dec 2017 27(4):517-535. - Publication Year :
- 2017
-
Abstract
- Following initial educational enthusiasms for 'Making' technologies and the 'Maker Movement', increasing numbers of students are now using digital fabrication programs and equipment in school. Given the current lack of empirical research exploring the realities of Making as a school activity, this paper presents an in-depth auto/ethnographic account of 3D printing--currently, one of the most popular Maker technologies in schools. Investigating the case of an 8 week Year 9 design project, this paper seeks to broaden understandings of how 3D printing technologies and practices are shaping "what counts" as learning within contemporary school settings. In particular, this research focuses on the experiences of Making within a school context; what is learned through these experiences; and how the process of Making in school feels. This paper highlights three key issues that have been marginalised to date in discussions of Making in schools: (1) lack of pragmatic engagement, (2) affective labour of failing; and (3) mediated alienation.
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0957-7572
- Volume :
- 27
- Issue :
- 4
- Database :
- ERIC
- Journal :
- International Journal of Technology and Design Education
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- EJ1160237
- Document Type :
- Journal Articles<br />Reports - Research
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1007/s10798-016-9366-z