Design-a-Device: Cell as as Building Blocks, Conceptualizing a 3D BioPrinter

3D bioprinting is an emerging field that seeks to address a shortage of compatible organ donors. Within the past five years alone considerable research has been conducted to develop a low-cost 3D bioprinter that does not sacrifice quality (especially print resolution) for cost. As bioprinters become cheaper, classroom teachers have a unique opportunity to introduce students to technology that has the potential to save lives, and to experiment with ways to use and improve it. Furthermore, students develop self-esteem, self-efficacy, and comfort in content matter through repeated use of laboratory equipment because they are able to directly experience and interact with the equipment. This ETP provides students an introduction into the world of 3D bioprinting by having them first conceptualize what parts would be required to make a device that can print cells into larger structures. From there, students are asked to consider the applications of such a device. This sets the stage for students to understand the key parts of a 3D bioprinter: the electronics, the mechanics, and the programming to run it; and to consider the implications of such a device, especially in medicine.