Background

To foster new knowledge within our community, it is crucial to inspire a change in behavior, particularly by actively involving the younger generation. However, many students find difficulty in grasping fundamental concepts in science and mathematics right from the beginning of their studies, forming a significant barrier to their engagement with Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM) education. Hence, the urgent need to improve the student’s interest in STEAM elements through translational science and cultivating empathy are critical exercises that can contribute to a sense of purpose among students. This project aims to leverage 3D Printing technology to enhance empathy and motivation for STEAM education among students. By utilizing 3D-printed educational kits as learning tools, students can effectively communicate and cultivate a self-driven interest in innovation and STEAM education. The introduction of this platform is anticipated to foster social innovation within institutions, serving as a catalyst to promote STEAM education among students. The essential of developing empathy in STEAM-related issues can be carried out with translational modules and adapted with revolutionary approaches.

The incorporation the element of Industrial Revolution 4.0 through 3D printing technology offers students a unique opportunity to understand more complex information and in-depth theories. Over recent years, 3D printing has transformed into an accessible technology, thanks to user-friendly and open-source software. The user-friendly nature of 3D printing software has made it a viable tool for everyone. The use of 3D-printed educational kits serves as a medium for educators to effectively communicate and convey knowledge to students, proving especially practical for younger audiences. Expanding the module to cater specifically to secondary school students allows for self-facilitation through prototyping and educational kits, enabling them to visualize and comprehend even the less popular topics in STEAM education. This hands-on learning approach empowers students to create their own solutions and deepen their understanding of a subject, fostering a genuine connection to the material

Therefore, the primary objectives of this programme are to establish a modular facility for in-house 3D printing knowledge and material development facilities for student prototyping projects and educational kits. In essence, 3D printing technology will be imparted through a series of hands-on workshops and training sessions. Ultimately, the digital designs created by participants will find application in classroom activities, focusing on the development of educational kits tailored for secondary school students. The flexibility of these 3D printed educational kits will enhance students’ visualization, particularly on challenging topics that are complex to grasp through traditional explanations in STEAM education. The module is designed to foster a broad awareness of the significance of STEAM knowledge and its potential contributions to society. Moreover, this platform serves as a crucial starting point for establishing translational research and expanding the pool of talent at the school level. These efforts align with the key principles of Malaysia’s Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals 2030 set by the United Nations.