In order to empower young girls in STEM, Northern Illinois University is running a program called 'STEM Divas' that aims to appeal to girls who might not otherwise gravitate towards math and science.
In the empowering program, young girls between the ages of seven to 10 are taught how to dye clothing, make soap or lip gloss, while learning about the chemistry behind each of the processes. The girls are also introduced to 3D printing technology, which gave them the chance to model their own 3D jewelry models in Autodesk Fusion 360.
In order to deal with the time and logistic constraints of 3D printing jewelry pieces for all of the girls in the program, each girl was given a 3Doodler to create the design using the principles of additive manufacturing.
Girl-Targeted Printing Programs
This Northern Illinois University Program Supports Girls in STEM
Trend Themes
1. Empowering Girls in STEM - The 'STEM Divas' program at Northern Illinois University is empowering young girls in STEM fields by teaching them practical skills and introducing them to cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing.
2. Hands-on Learning in Chemistry - By teaching girls how to dye clothing and make soap and lip gloss, the 'STEM Divas' program is providing hands-on learning experiences that engage girls in science and chemistry.
3. Additive Manufacturing for Education - Using 3Doodlers to create 3D jewelry designs introduces girls in the 'STEM Divas' program to the world of additive manufacturing, offering an opportunity for educational exploration.
Industry Implications
1. Education - The 'STEM Divas' program has the potential to disrupt the education industry by inspiring and empowering young girls to pursue STEM fields through hands-on learning experiences.
2. Girl-focused Programs - 'STEM Divas' is part of a growing trend of girl-focused programs that aim to bridge the gender gap in STEM and provide equal opportunities for girls to explore and excel in these fields.
3. Advancements in 3D Printing - The use of 3D printing technology in the 'STEM Divas' program demonstrates the potential for innovation and disruption in the 3D printing industry, particularly in the education sector.