Empowering Minds: The Crucial Role of Cutting-Edge Lasers in Design Technology
STEM education, which stands for science, technology, engineering and mathematics, has perhaps never been so important. The need to compete globally in an increasingly technological age has seen a renewed focus on this kind of learning, aiming to encourage a whole new generation of students to specialise in fields of this nature. To make this a reality, it is essential that schools are equipped with both the teaching professionals and machinery that can make a difference in the real world. That means a drive to encourage the brightest minds to apply themselves to teaching in STEM education and also making sure classrooms and school laboratories have the right equipment to fire and spark young minds.
One such essential piece of equipment in the design, tech and engineering field is a laser cutter. This kind of cutting has revolutionised the design industry in recent years and an in-depth understanding of its power and potential now constitutes a basic set of skills that students should possess to carry forward in their careers. But just why is STEM so important and why is laser cutting such a big part of this? Let’s take a closer look.
What STEM offers students
Design technology aims to improve the growing mindset of secondary school students by exploring design and making products to solve real-world problems. Not only is this a positive educational tool in and of itself, but the STEM fields offer perhaps the most exciting opportunities for employment and progressive career opportunities for school and college leavers.
Why are laser cutters important?
Laser cutters enhance a student’s experience through hands-on learning, creativity, innovation and precision learning. This can help to foster attention to detail in young minds and may be the first step on a satisfying and rewarding career path in this area.
Cutting-edge lasers play a vital role in allowing students to gain industry-relevant skills in preparation for their future. Many students can now create their own prototypes, intricate designs or personalised products, both to help develop their skill set and to carry forward as examples of their work.
The role of project-based learning
Rather than just developing isolated skills, the integration of laser technology in educational settings can foster collaborative learning through project-based learning, problem-solving dynamics and idea exchanges. This is especially helped by the division of tasks and peer-to-peer learning.
As you can see, a laser cutter for schools can provide students with the opportunities to develop core practical skills that can assist them in the workplace and their future careers. But more than this, it can help to facilitate a new way of learning. Rather than developing isolated skills, students can learn in a more project-oriented way, which has further applications in the world of higher education and employment.
A STEM focus is changing the way the next generation of students is learning and a laser cutter for education institutions can be one of the essential tools for making this happen. To equip your school and students with the learning tools that can really change lives and to see the benefits of laser cutter projects for schools, browse our lasers here at Hobarts.
Image source: Canva