3-D printed models

Trying to visualize molecular processes for students can be very challenging.  Neil Raymond and I decided to try 3-D printed objects to use in the classroom to teach these concepts in Biology.  I used the database thingiverse to search for models, and Neil designed and printed his own working sarcomere through tinkercad.  After using the models in class, I discovered that they can be powerful tools to aid in conceptualizing and visualizing processes, especially at the molecular level.  The 3-D printing is a compliment to STEM curriculum and promotes problem solving skills.  I used 3-D printed models of red blood cells containing antigens and antibodies in BIO160.  Next week I will be using a 3-D model of DNA, mRNA, and tRNA to teach the structures of each molecule, in addition to the process involved in protein synthesis.  Students traditionally struggle with this molecular process.  I will use data from the test they most recently took to compare the class that used the models to the class that did not.  This worked out based on when the models were finished and available.