3D Printing & Design
Why This Class
Is your student fascinated by emerging technology? Do you want to help them experience it now and explore its potential as the basis for a future career path? If so, this course gives your student hands-on experience with the fast-evolving technology of 3D printing.
Students in this self-paced course learn how to take concepts of their choice—from candy to robots to rocket ships—from two-dimensional sketches to solid, three-dimensional objects. Beginning with simple shapes and building up to complex models, they learn how to use photos to scale their designs, use software to customize and finalize their concepts and get the opportunity to 3D-print a final product as a real-life test of their new skills.
Students emerge from this course with an awareness of the intricacies involved in creating 3D-printable designs and prototypes. They gain experience with the essential steps of 3D printing and realize whether it’s something they want to pursue as a career or hobby.
Overarching Questions
What is 3D printing and why is it so innovative?
How do I install, set up, and use Blender 2.7x?
What steps are involved in transforming a 2-dimensional object into three dimensions?
How do I design, print, and finish my toy?
What careers are available with 3D printing skills?
Required Materials
Blender 2.7 or higher (free download)
Personal computer or laptop
*This course will not work on a Chromebook.
Course Details
Recommended Grade: 9th (Freshman) – 12th (Senior)
Prerequisites: None
Estimated Weekly Hours: 5
Format: Self-paced
Credits: 0.5