From theory to tangibility: using 3D-printed prototypes to teach utility and production functions in economics

Many economics students, even at the graduate level, struggle to deeply understand the complex nature of utility and production functions. This intrinsic complexity poses challenges for both instructors in teaching and students in learning. Given that these functions are fundamental building blocks of economics, it is crucial for students to fully grasp the essence, forms and properties of these functions to be able to thrive academically and professionally in the discipline. This paper introduces an innovative pedagogical tool that leverages 3D-printed prototypes to teach utility and production functions, along with their important properties. By providing students with tangible, ‘realised demonstrations’ of these functions, this method allows them to ‘observe’ and interact with what is typically described verbally or graphically in the classroom. This way, students can see and touch the functions, gaining hands-on experience that enhances their understanding of such a highly complex discipline. The paper discusses the pedagogical advantages and applications of this approach and highlights how these tools can significantly improve the quality of teaching and learning in the classroom. Using these prototypes, students can engage with colourfully designed models of major utility and production functions, which effectively illustrate the delicate subtleties and properties of utility and production functions.