The Centenary College of Louisiana Department of Biology will host a 3D printing open house on Tuesday, Sept. 15, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in Kilpatrick Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public.
Dr. Ellyn Evans, assistant professor of biology, said the department has produced thousands of 3D-printed models using new printers funded by Evans’ startup funds, Dr. George Tiller’s professional development funds, two Center for Teaching and Learning Teaching Innovation grants, and Student Government Association funds.
“We are excited to show off the 3D printers’ capabilities,” said Dr. Evans. “We will be showcasing all of our current models and having newly printed cell models for attendees to paint and take home.”
The models are designed to expand hands-on learning resources for students in Biology 101 and 202, including non-majors enrolled in Centenary’s introductory biology sequence. Tiller, also an assistant professor of biology, has led the effort by sourcing printable files, producing thousands of prints and painting models alongside Evans.
“Physical models allow students to achieve better learning outcomes; however, companies charge hundreds to thousands of dollars for one classroom model,” said Dr. Tiller. “3D printing enables us to make the same models for a few dollars each allowing us to provide individual models for each student.”
This technology is exactly the kind of innovation that Centenary’s Center for Teaching and Learning loves to support through microgrants.
“We were excited when Dr. Evans and Dr. Tiller shared their idea for incorporating 3D models into their courses,” said Dr. Rachel Johnson, assistant professor of education and English and the director for the Center for Teaching and Learning.
Centenary’s Biology Department offers courses and degrees in biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience. For more information about Centenary College’s biology program, visit centenary.edu/biology or contact Dr. Scott Chirhart, Chair of the Biology Department.