3D pens, stereometry, and primary school students: Results of a project

Abstract

Students face quite a lot of problems in understanding concepts related to stereometry. 3D pens can be used in the teaching of a variety of subjects, providing better visualization of abstract concepts, while offering hands-on experiences to students. In light of the above, a project was implemented the objective of which was to examine whether 3D pens have an impact on students' learning of stereometry-related concepts. The target group was fifty primary school students aged 10 to 12. A within-subjects research design with two treatments was followed, meaning that the same students used two tools, namely 3D pens and conventional materials. It was found that, indeed, 3D pens can produce better learning outcomes compared to conventional materials. In addition, their impact on students' enjoyment while learning and on their motivation to learn was also positive, although they were harder to use than conventional materials. While the above results provide evidence for the educational value of 3D pens, further research is needed to find methods of integrating them into teaching and exploiting their educational potential.