Case Study: PS 121 Throop achieves hands-on STEAM learning and increased student engagement with MakerBot 3D Printing

Students Enjoy Access to Better Learning with the MakerBot 3D Printing Experience

PS 121 Throop, a Title I K–5 school in the Bronx, faced limited access to technology for many students—especially 4th and 5th graders who had little or no experience with laptops. To broaden hands-on STEAM learning in the SASF Extended Day Program, program directors purchased a MakerBot Replicator Desktop 3D Printer and used the MakerBot in the Classroom materials to introduce 3D printing and modeling.

Using the MakerBot Replicator, instructor Cliff Hernandez taught students 3D modeling with Tinkercad and guided projects from simple trophies to complex skylines, combining group work with one-on-one coaching. The MakerBot-led curriculum boosted engagement, retention of STEAM concepts, problem-solving and design skills, and moved students from no laptop experience to producing printed models—an impact underscored by three additional SASF sites investing in MakerBot and plans to expand 3D printing across the program.

PS 121 Throop

Angelica Segarra

Program Director