Beginners CAD and Design (3d modeling)

Beginners CAD and Design (3d modeling) is the first class of a series of more advanced topics.  It will serve as the prerequisite and foundation for future development.  In this first class we will focus in on what is the design process and how it is used.  We will then apply that knowledge immediately by working on a simple CAD model using TinkerCAD.

In the first phase of the class, students will setup and sign into TinkerCAD, which is a free cloud based CAD software from Autodesk.  Our first assignment is simply to get used to the layout of the software.  We will figure out how to navigate the program while working through core tools and functionality.  With the basics in place, students will be provided with a specific objective to complete.

During the working portion of the class, students will be encouraged to play, explore, make mistakes and figure things out as they go along.  Guidance will typically center on helping students help themselves, without providing step-by-step instructions.  The goal is give students the opportunity to build confidence and resilience by overcoming a series of personal challenges.

Students should expect to be provided with specific and direct feedback throughout the process.  Students are also encouraged to collaborate with classmates, switching to and from independent work.

This course is setup to be a personalized hybrid learning environment.  Students will be provided with specific directions, feedback and expectations.  During each session, progress will be reviewed and assessed, setting up students to work independently until the following session.  Our intro class will be a little longer to provide all the necessary background and foundations.  Subsequent classes can range between 15-35 mins, depending on the student's needs.  Most students complete the project throughout roughly 8 sessions, however, there is plenty of opportunities to customize as desired.