Module 1: What Is 3D Printing?

Overview

In this module, you will learn what 3D printing is, how 3D printers work, and the type of objects you can make using this revolutionary new technology.

Time

This module should take approximately 3.25 hours of dedicated time to complete, with its videos and assignments.

Reading

3DPrinting.com. (n.d.). What is 3D printing?

Feel free to find other readings or resources and share them with others in our discussion forums.

Lessons

The lessons for this module are listed below (with assignments in bold italics):

Lesson Title	Estimated Time Required
3D Printing Insights	60 minutes
*What Would You Make? Exercise*	30 minutes
3D Printing: Facts & Concepts	30 minutes
*Module 1 Practice Quiz*	15 minutes
More 3D Printing Insights	45 minutes
*Module 1 Quiz*	15 minutes

Goals and Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:

Understand what 3D printing is.
Explain how 3D printing works.
Describe the types of things you can make with a 3D printer.

Key Phrases/Concepts

Keep your eyes open for the following key terms or phrases as you interact with the lectures and complete the activities. For definitions of the terms, please see the Glossary .

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Fusion360
Hackerspace
MakerBot
PrintrBot
Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)
Stereolithography (SLA)
Thingiverse
TinkerCad
Thermoplastic
Ultimaker

Getting and Giving Help

You can get/give help via the following means:

Use the Learner Help Center to find information regarding specific technical problems. For example, technical problems would include error messages, difficulty submitting assignments, or problems with video playback. If you cannot find an answer in the documentation, you can also report your problem to the Coursera staff by clicking on the Contact Us! link available on each topic's page within the Learner Help Center.
Use the Course Suggestions forum to report errors in lecture video content, assignment questions and answers, assignment grading, text and links on course pages, or the content of other course materials. University of Illinois staff and community TAs will monitor this forum and respond to issues.