Germany
Case Study - Reconstructing the Ancient Airport in Messestadt Riem with 3D Modelling
This case study explores how 4th-grade students used 3D pens, Tinkercad, and Google Maps to reconstruct the ancient airport in Messestadt Riem. The project allowed students to combine historical learning with modern technology to create a map of the ancient airport with google maps and ancient photos and construct detailed 3D models of the ancient buildings of the site.
Context
The case study took place in a 4th-grade classroom at a primary school located in Messestadt Riem. The class consisted of 20 students aged 9 to 10 years. The project focused on the historical site of the Messestadt Riem airport in Munich, specifically its former use before being redeveloped into the modern Messestadt district. The school was equipped with computers, 3D pens, 3D Printer and access to Google Maps, enabling students to research and digitally recreate the airport’s historical layout. The goal of the project was to help students understand historical landmarks while introducing them to 3D modelling and the potential of integrating technology into geography and history lessons.
Problem/Challenges
The project encountered several challenges:
- Limited experience with 3D design tools: Many students were new to using both Tinkercad and 3D pens, which posed difficulties in mastering the tools.
- Lack of detailed historical data: While students had access to Google Maps for current layouts, reconstructing the ancient airport required them to interpret limited historical maps and aerial images, which were not always clear or detailed.
- Technical issues with 3D pens: The use of 3D pens presented challenges in terms of filament control and overheating, leading to occasional interruptions in students’ work.
- Combining digital and physical models: The challenge was to seamlessly integrate the digital models created in Tinkercad with the physical 3D pen designs. This required careful planning to ensure accuracy when merging both forms.
- Time limitations: The project needed to be completed in a short timeframe, requiring students to manage both the learning curve of new tools and the complexities of historical research.
Solutions
To address these challenges, the following solutions were implemented:
- Introduction to Tools and Research: Students were given a brief introduction to Google Maps and Tinkercad, learning how to use the tools to view the modern Messestadt Riem and explore historical images of the ancient airport. Teachers provided a mix of digital and printed resources, including aerial maps and old photos, to give students a better understanding of the airport’s structure.
- Guided 3D Modelling Training: Before starting the project, students participated in workshops to learn how to use Tinkercad and 3D pens. Teachers demonstrated basic techniques for designing and printing 3D structures, allowing students to practice with simple models before starting the airport reconstruction.
- Using Google Maps for Research: Google Maps was used to help students explore the current layout of Messestadt Riem and compare it with historical images. Students could also use Google Earth to zoom in on aerial views of the site, offering valuable insights for their models.
- Teamwork and Role Distribution: The class was divided into small groups, each responsible for different parts of the airport (runways, terminal buildings, hangars, etc.). This ensured that students could collaborate effectively, with each group applying their learning to recreate specific aspects of the airport.
- Integration of Digital and Physical Models: After designing structures in Tinkercad, students printed small elements (like buildings or vehicles) and used 3D pens to create larger components of the airport, such as runways and roads. By printing templates of their Tinkercad designs, they could adapt them for the 3D pen, ensuring that the physical model matched the digital representation as closely as possible.
- Time Management and Milestones: The project was broken down into manageable stages, with deadlines for research, digital design, and the physical model’s construction. Teachers provided regular check-ins and adjusted timelines as needed to keep the project on track.
By the end of the project, students successfully created a 3D reconstruction of the ancient Messestadt Riem airport, blending digital and physical elements. This hands-on project helped students gain a deeper understanding of historical geography while introducing them to modern 3D design tools and methods.
