Improvement of Mathematical Teaching Through the Development of Virtual CAD Models and Physical Prototypes for Real Visualization Using 3D Printing
This article explores a possibility to improve mathematical teaching by using 3D printing technology. The question is whether it is possible to use low cost additive manufacturing technology to develop and manufacture real physical prototypes of complex mathematical surfaces and volumes and on that way improve mathematics education. Five mathematical problems were chosen as case studies. Visualization of this problems was done using professor hand drawing, using computer visualization and using development and manufacturing of real physical prototypes. To find out how much better is understanding of these problems, survey with 57 students is carried out. Results showed significant improvements of understanding and better visualization of selected mathematical problems.