3D printing the world: developing geophysical teaching materials and
outreach packages
Abstract
3D-printing techniques allow us to visualise geophysical concepts that
are difficult to grasp, making them perfect for incorporation into
teaching and outreach packages. Abstract models, often represented as 2D
coloured maps, become more tactile when represented as 3D physical
objects. In addition, new questions tend to be asked and different
features noticed when handling such objects, while they also make
outreach and education more inclusive to the visually impaired. Some of
our most effective models are simply exaggerated planetary topography in
3D, including Earth, Mars and the Moon. The resulting globes provide a
powerful way to explain the importance of plate tectonics in shaping a
planet and linking surface features to deeper dynamic processes. In
addition, we have developed a simple method for portraying abstract
global models by 3D printing modified globes of surface topography,
representing the parameter of interest as additional, exaggerated
long-wavelength topography. This workflow has been applied to models of
dynamic topography, the geoid and seismic tomography. In analogy to
Russian nesting dolls, the resulting “seismic matryoshkas” have
multiple layers that can be removed by the audience to explore the
structures present deep within our planet and learn about the ongoing
dynamic processes. While these 3D objects are easily printed on a cheap
(<300 GBP, 400USD) desktop 3D-printer, the printing times
still prohibit large-scale production. To ensure that there is
sufficient material in a teaching setting, we have therefore also
developed complementary paper equivalents. By projecting the coloured
maps onto a dodecahedron, we developed cut-out-and-fold models to be
handed out in a classroom setting to complement the 3D printed globes
used for demonstration purposes. Together with animations, suggested
questions and instructor “cheat-sheets”, these materials form a
complete teaching and outreach package that is both interactive and
inclusive.