Integration of 3D Prototyping And Case Study Method For Project-Based Learning: Developing Innovation And Collaboration Skills

This study presents an educational experience that leverages iterative prototyping, progressing from digital models to clay models and finally 3D-printed prototypes to develop critical thinking, teamwork, and technological proficiency among university students.
The activity is structured around a real-world business scenario (Kolb et al.,1984, Lave & Wenger, 1991), where students take on the role of consultants for companies randomly assigned using case studies (Herreid et al, 2013), identifying improvement opportunities in product design, customer service, and organizational structures. A core element of the methodology is the case study, which allows students to engage with real-world challenges in business environments. This study seeks to answer the following research question: ¿How does the integration of case study analysis and iterative prototyping (from digital to physical) impact the development of innovation, collaboration, and problem-solving skills in university students?