Construct3D 2017

As educators, we want to empower students to succeed. In a constantly-changing digital world, that means building and supporting technology literacy in our students. But when faced with limited time, tools, and other resources, how do you engage your students in emerging technologies? What do you do when the traditional model for technology education won’t work in your context?

In this hands-on workshop, we’ll examine a low-tech “concept breakout” framework for developing technology programs when faced with resource constraints. We’ll break down the process of 3D printing into individual STEM concepts like phase changes, structural engineering, and coordinate geometry. We’ll explore low-tech ways of engaging students in these concepts, using low-cost materials like hot glue, building blocks, and yarn. At the end, we’ll discuss how these activities can be adapted for a variety of age groups, and how the “concept breakout” model can be applied to other technologies.

Google Slides: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1sPw0lQ5X-QRRgg8M2XMIZ_-HhrTdOYBoXOx3TtLAsfY/edit?usp=sharing

Activity Handouts: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1RPSp7RtHMjHwfbJu2SZhqS6JycQt8CXBjW-h2W4YbYQ/edit?usp=sharing