One of the first hand-held scanners in Europe arrived to Estonia
The Centre for Educational Innovation of the University of Tartu received one of Europe's first hand-held scanners that, among other things, allows scanning a full-length person and printing a corresponding 3D image in reduced measurements.
The computer and technology class of the University of Tartu's Centre for Educational Innovation was supplemented with a unique hand-held scanner which will be used by the students of teacher education during their studies. Leo Siiman, Senior Research Fellow of Technology Education at the University of Tartu explained that the 3D scanner analyses the shape and appearance of real objects, and the data is used to create a three-dimensional model of the object on the computer. The centre's 3D printer produces a three-dimensional object of the design, which can then be used as a prototype in developing product design, making moulds and preparing models.
Siiman admitted that the use of innovative technological tools in studies makes it more attractive to the learners as well as teachers: “The field of technology is developing rapidly and the youth is extremely interested in technology. Therefore we should not be afraid of using technology in studies as this is one of the primary means of raising the awareness of students and promoting wise use of technology already during their school years. By implementing new technological tools, we show future teachers how to give studying activities an additional value that the student can transfer to real life in the future.”
The use of modern technology and student-centred methods in teacher education at the University of Tartu has also been highlighted by the evaluation committee of the EKKA Quality Assessment Council, which acknowledged the recent changes and encouraged the university to continue on the same path.