Sata3D in brief

Satakunta Museum holds an extensive and culturally significant archaeological collection representing Finland’s prehistory from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. These objects provide invaluable insights into how people lived, worked, crafted tools, dressed, and formed communities thousands of years ago. The collection is a vital part of both regional and national cultural heritage, yet its accessibility remains limited, as most of the artefacts can only be seen in the museum’s physical spaces.

This project responds to the need to make prehistory more accessible and meaningful for contemporary audiences—especially children, young people, and families. The aim is not only to share knowledge, but to create experiences: opportunities to touch, explore, and engage with the past in a multisensory way. Through 3D digitisation and 3D printing, archaeological artefacts are transformed into safe, durable replicas that can be used in schools, museums, and other learning environments.

3D Technology as a Tool for Cultural Heritage Access

Within the project, selected archaeological artefacts from Satakunta Museum are 3D scanned and modelled in close collaboration with the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at the University of Turku. From these digital models, physical 3D prints are produced for educational use. This approach allows detailed study of artefacts without handling the original, often fragile objects. The printed replicas are easy to transport, robust, and safe for hands-on use by children.

The digital 3D models, together with contextual information, are published openly through Satakunta Museum’s Finna portal. During the project, preparations are also made for publishing the material in Europeana. Each model is accompanied by clear printing instructions, enabling use with a wide range of 3D printers and supporting reuse in different educational contexts.

Multisensory Learning and Workshops

A key pedagogical principle of the project is multisensory learning. Instead of relying solely on reading or listening, participants learn by doing and experiencing. Using 3D-printed artefacts, children and young people can explore the shape, weight, and function of prehistoric objects, experiment with ancient tools in a safe format, and engage with storytelling, soundscapes, light, movement, and imagination.

During the project, five pilot workshops are organised: three in schools across the Satakunta region and two open workshops at the museum during the winter holiday period. These workshops test different multisensory methods, such as tactile discovery activities, museum scavenger hunts, and narrative-based sessions where objects are combined with sound and light. Feedback from participants, teachers, and families is collected and used to refine the educational materials.

Educational Toolkits and Long-Term Impact

Based on the workshops, a set of educational toolkits is developed for schools. These include:

• 3D models and printing instructions
• background information on artefacts and time periods
• task ideas and multisensory exercises
• guidance on integrating the materials into different school subjects

The toolkits are designed for different age groups and aligned with curriculum objectives. All materials are published openly through the Finna service, ensuring nationwide accessibility—including areas without direct access to museum services. The digital format also enables use in remote and hybrid learning environments.

Collaboration, Accessibility, and Cultural Impact

The project combines Satakunta Museum’s expertise in cultural heritage and museum pedagogy with the University of Turku’s advanced knowledge in 3D scanning, modelling, and additive manufacturing. At the same time, it strengthens the museum’s internal digitisation skills and creates a foundation for new forms of interdisciplinary collaboration between museums and higher education institutions.

The overarching goal of the project is to make prehistory tangible, accessible, and meaningful. When the past is no longer something that can only be viewed behind glass, but something that can be touched, explored, and experienced, it becomes a living part of the present—supporting cultural identity, inclusion, and the joy of learning.