FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. - What started as Professor Tatsiana Barrow's curiosity during "Take Your Child to Work Day" has blossomed into an unforgettable learning experience for her EAP0400C Listening & Speaking students. When Barrow spotted 3D printers on the A. Hugh Adams Central Campus, she saw an opportunity to bring Unit 2 "Design" to real life in ways her students hadn’t expected.

"I love diversifying my classes by connecting with different pathways at BC," said Barrow, who teaches in the Communication Department. Her initiative to reach out to the IT and Engineering Department located in Building 13 paid off beautifully when academic technologist Ester Sims agreed to organize a hands-on introduction to 3D printing.

What followed felt like a field trip adventure. Students walked across campus to discover a world of innovation in the makerspace, where Associate Dean Brian Faris served as their host. Under Ester's expert guidance, the group explored different types of 3D printers, learned about various materials and recycling processes, and dove deep into the endless possibilities of 3D printing technology.

The highlight? Everyone got genuinely excited about the prospect of creating and tasting a 3D printed chocolate castle one day.

"The session turned out to be a great success," Barrow said. "Together with my students, I learned so much about what 3D printing can offer. We are most appreciative of the welcome shown to us by Ester Sims and AD Brian Faris."

This collaboration demonstrates Broward College's commitment to innovative, cross-disciplinary learning. When professors reach out with creative ideas, departments respond with open arms and expertise, creating memorable experiences that extend far beyond traditional classroom walls.

Other faculty interested in similar makerspace collaborations are encouraged to visit www.broward.edu/makerspace to explore opportunities for enhancing their curriculum with hands-on, technology-focused learning experiences.

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