Abstract

This research proposes 3D printing outputs applicable to geography subject at the primary and secondary school level, aiming to revitalise convergence education. As the 3D contents development tools, open source based geographic information system software and 3D printer have been used for digital geographic data creation and conversions. In this paper, we discuss 3D perspectives on geographical learning and show an example of three-dimensional materials using GIS and its 3D printing method which have been actively used recently in education fields. For 3D data process and material printing, it searches adequate themes for geography students that enable to explore three-dimensional thinking into geographical learning. Two themes are selected as topographical changes and urban population distribution. Their 3D printing results have been produced by using QGIS programme. This paper shows a seamless three-dimensional contents creation that is suitable for delivering three dimensional way of thinking into geography class at schools. Open source GIS and 3D printing have been successfully integrated into data conversion and printing of geographical features. We expect this 3D technology-driven approach contributes to exploring the development of various teaching and learning materials for geographical education, and further will be commonly used in the classroom.