Nisita, Alex and Vrishti's 3D Printing Learning Story

Learners: Vrishti, Alex & Nisita    Learning Coach: T.Dillner            Date: 21.9.15

Learning Area: Technology - 3D Printing

Learning Observed

Vrishti, Alex and Nisita chose to participate in 3D Printing during iExperience during Week 7-10 this term. We initially learnt about the Thinker’s Key called ‘BAR’. BAR stands for Bigger, Add, Replace. To practise, the learners had to pick either a pen, lunch box or tennis racquet to make a feature bigger, add to the item and replace something. The learners had as much creative license as they needed and then they reflected on how functional the item had become - could it still be used for its original purpose? The next stage was to come up with an item that we use at school and repeat the BAR process. Vrishti, Alex and Nisita decided to make a new version of a pencil case. Vrishti, Alex and Nisita had to use the website TinkerCad to design their new and improved pencil case. They had to use the pre-existing shapes to form their 3D model which was then printed out by our LH1 3D printer. After analysing their printed model, the girls were able to write a description about who would use it, why they designed it and what its features were. They also spent some time reflecting on improvements and redesigning it on TinkerCad to show these changes.

Evidence of learning

Vrishti, Alex and Nisita’s explanation of their 3D pencil case.

Key Competencies/Vision Principles

Vrishti, Alex and Nisita were collaborative during this process by sharing ideas and coming up with other ways to show creativity (Thinking, Participating & Contributing). They demonstrated curiosity by engaging with the entire technology process of designing, making, redesigning and evaluating. Vrishti, Alex and Nisita were connected as they were able to show their learning in three different mediums (paper, digital and printed model).

Next Learning Steps

Complete the second design on TinkerCad and print if time allows. Use the 3D printer as a component of an iExplore. Teach another learner how to use TinkerCad.