Teachers often ask us how do schools justify the cost of a laser cutter? Sure, laser systems can be a substantial up-front investment, but the benefits are phenomenal, ongoing and constantly evolving.
Laser cutters have revolutionized manufacturing industries by offering unparalleled levels of speed, precision and, indeed, creativity.
Consequently, they are becoming firmly entrenched into the education sector.
The versatility of laser machines means they can be introduced to a variety of courses, from fashion classes to woodworking. This gives students new ways to express their ideas, and future-proofing them for industries that may not even exist yet.
Although the initial costs may give you a moment to pause, it is sobering to know that the cost of a laser system is truly a ‘one-off’ capital cost. With diligent maintenance and servicing, these wondrous machines will be pumping out students’ masterpieces for years to come.
In fact, schools who have already made the investment agree that their laser system is the ‘workhorse’ of the school. It becomes the most used tool, thanks to the near endless number of applications and uses.
Laser Engraving and Cutting in Class
Lasers can be used by students and teachers alike to diversify curricula, encourage creativity and develop critical thinking skills.
Allowing students to turn their designs into physical reality opens up an abundance of opportunities and applications. Whether this integrates into your design technology, STEAM, graphics, art and/or textiles curriculum, the practical value of a laser system is immense.
Courses that can benefit from lasers, to name but a few, are:
Laser Systems for Art and Design Classes
Whether you’re teaching a traditional art class or woodworking, a laser machine offers limitless possibilities when it comes to projects. Not only can a laser be applied to various materials, including glass, garments and wood, but it can also increase the speed and quality of students’ final projects. This gives them something that they can be immensely proud of, thus increasing their attentiveness, participation, and instilling a desire to learn.
Additionally, laser engraving machines may also be used to personalise projects, allowing students to make unique creations.
Lasers for Fashion Classes and Textiles
The fashion industry has a global value of over $2.5 trillion, thus offers an enormous amount of exciting career opportunities.
Introducing a laser machine to fashion courses lets students learn about production and manufacturing methods used by fashion experts, consequently preparing them to enter the real world.
Laser machines may be used for a variety of applications, including: cutting fabrics into complex shapes, decorating clothing and textiles, and creating accessories (such as earrings and other jewellery).
Lasers for STEAM Courses
Laser cutting machines are a great way for budding scientists and future-proofed technologists to familiarise themselves with lasers. Gaining first-hand experience with lasers gives students the knowledge they need to excel in science and technology in the future.
Using Laser Systems to Save (and Raise) Money
Even with all the advantages laser machines bring to the classroom, it may still be difficult to justify the cost. Fortunately, laser cutters offer plenty of ways to raise and save money.
That is right, lasers can make and save your school money!
For instance, hosting a fundraiser is a great way to earn back the money spent on a laser cutter. A laser engraving machine can be used to personalise a variety of items with your school logo or motto. You can sell these custom creations all year-round in a school store or advertise them at certain events, like graduations.
How about engraving awards? Your laser can do that!
Hosting award ceremonies is a great way to motivate people. Whether you want to honour pupils for academic achievements or commend teachers for their dedication. Without a laser, your school will need to rely on an expensive third party solution, or some flimsy, printed A4 sheet of paper. By completing laser engravings in-house, you can conserve costs and offer high-quality awards that accurately represent the achievements of students and faculty.
Even school supplies can be created cost-effectively with your laser system - from learning materials to furniture - laser cutting machines offer the chance to make some of those supplies yourself.
Justify the cost of a laser cutter for your school
Much like 3D printing, laser cutting is continuing to push boundaries in the manufacturing industry and will be at the forefront for coming generations. This gives context to the introduction of such skills at school. It is a phenomenal experience witnessing some of the projects involving laser systems coming out of schools at the moment. It gives us the impression that schools without this technology cannot afford to be too far behind.
Excellent usability & accuracy, a once off capital cost, a plethora of applications over various subjects and the all-important WOW factor, are just a few of the reasons to justify a laser system at your school.
