Amelia Machen
Gold Creek School
Australia

3D Pit Stop Printing

Mon, Apr 22, 2019 1:06 AM
3D Pit Stop Printing - a detailed explanation of this project.

The authors created a unit of work based on a real problem the students faced with their competition car design challenge. The article discusses the processes used in detail to engage the students in a 'real world' issue. It demonstrates how the program links to the NGSS standards and contains samples of resources used by the teachers to engage the students in higher order thinking. The authors suggested inviting experts in Engineering Design / 3D printining to talk to the students about the Design Processes. Overall, this article is very detailed and could be used for implementation in the classroom.

Printing the Playground

Mon, Apr 22, 2019 12:45 AM
Using a 3D printer with young children.

This article demonstrated how students used Technology to solve a 'real world' problem. It is amazing to think that this project was completed by first graders. I found this article a great expectation to expect more from my own students. The article demonstrates how the project was using the Engineering Design Processes and the author discusses how a 3D printer works and suggests ways schools can find ways to do this unit even if the school does not have their own printer. An interesting article that I will be happy to share with my colleagues.

Listserv Roundup: A Short Guide to Genius Hour Makerspaces

Sun, Apr 21, 2019 10:38 PM
A great argument for running a Makerspace at your school.

Cheska Robinson wrote an interesting article sharing her findings of the benefits of running a Genius Hour as part of a Makerspace at your school. She commented that it encourages students to find their inspiration from working independently on projects of their own choosing. She further states that Makerspaces help students develop independent thinking and problem-solving skills. The article further suggests strategies on how to start a Makerspace such as: 1. Have an endgame in mind 2. Give students ownership 3. Find a suitable space 4. Recycle, reuse and ask for help 5. Showcase students' work The article concludes with an excellent list of resources supplied by teachers who are currently running Makerspaces or Genius Hour. Overall a really good article to get you started with your own Makerspace.