In order to ensure the longevity and continuing emergence of 3D printing technology, it’s critical that our brightest young minds have access to high quality educational tools pertaining to it. Across the United States and the world, a number of institutions and enterprises have used STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) education as a vehicle for the teaching of 3D printing. From the state of Colorado to the African country of Senegal, STEM education and 3D printing technology have proven to be an endearing and innovative match. Even 3D printing companies like Robo3D and MakerBot have undertaken educational initiatives of their own, helping to solidify the emerging technology as a viable tool for the foreseeable future.
One of the top STEM franchises in the US, Zaniac, has opened campuses across the country, integrating enjoyable and educational content into their unique after-school programs. The institution was founded in 2011 by Paul Zane Pilzer, a renowned economist and New York Times bestselling author. Zaniac currently has campuses in various cities across Utah, Connecticut, Texas, North Carolina, California, Massachusetts, New York, and Florida. Now, the STEM franchise has announced that they will be constructing their first campus in the state of Kentucky, to be opened in September in Louisville.
The Zaniac STEM curriculum includes a number of hands-on learning programs for students, including Robotics: LEGO, Game-Based Learning: Minecraft, 3D Printing, App Creation, Computer Programming, and 3D Game Design. By combining familiar toys and games with tech-driven math and science lessons, Zaniac is adequately preparing these students for the future. The program will walk participating students through the entire 3D printing process, from 3D modeling to the final print. The national STEM franchise is known for developing their curriculum to feel more like a recreational activity than a classroom assignment, keeping their students smiling while they cultivate their skills.
“Our country’s current educational climate is not fluid enough to keep up with society’s technological advancements and the associated career advancements,” said Sidharth Oberoi, Zaniac President and Chief Academic Officer. “Parents are seeking supplemental learning opportunities for their children that encourage them to utilize critical thinking skills and develop their own projects in order to visualize and truly understand STEM concepts. Zaniac campuses harness creativity making it a fun, engaging system for educational enrichment.”
The campus will be opened by local entrepreneurs Dhaval and Kinjal Patel, a couple that has kids of their own. The Patels’ new Zaniac franchise will be the first in the state, and will be utilized to provide supplemental STEM-driven learning opportunities for young local students. The campus will service both the Louisville metro area and southern Indiana, and will be located at 1257 S. Hurstbourne Parkway.
“While in school, I found most of my education was redundant memorization. I often received high exam scores, but that method of learning did not engage me,” said Dhaval. “That personal experience is exactly why I’m bringing Zaniac to Louisville. Zaniac takes what kids find interesting and turns it into an appealing learning experience that also prepares them for 21st century careers.”
This isn’t the Patels’ first time running a franchise; the couple runs multiple Subway restaurants in the Louisville area. And, although this may be the first Zaniac campus to open in Kentucky, the Patels are looking to open additional campuses throughout the state in the near future. All in all, Zaniac is well on their way to meeting their goal for 2017, which is to have at least 50 campuses operating across the United States. Thoughts on this franchise? Let’s discuss further in the Zaniac 3D Printing Programs forum over at 3DPB.com.
