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3D Print and Design in Education is Here to Stay-TinkerCad is an Entry Level 3D Print and Design Dream!
Community Review for Tinkercad
My Take
There is no doubt that 3D print and design is here to stay and will continue to be integrated and embedded in all curriculum and content in education. Tinkercad is one fo the best entry level CAD software tools for students learning 3D design. There is no fee associated with tool, and students may access from any device. Additional tutorials are available through the TinkerCad YouTube channel and students may view 3D print models created in the tool in The Gallery on the site. If you are starting to explore 3D print and design, start with TinkerCad.
How I Use It
Tinkercad is an excellent tool for helping students become creators and problem solvers. I incorporate TinkerCad into lessons across the curriculum, asking students to design a 3D modeled object created in the software to pitch for production for a variety of purposes. For example, a Culinary Arts class is asked to design an item that would make life in the kitchen simpler or more productive. Students need to research 3D designs that have already been created by others for inspirations, learn how to create a model in TinkerCad using the lessons provided within the software, design, and then deliver a presentation pitch to the class. Students then have the option of printing their final product on our 3D printer. Additionally, AutoDesk (the makers of TinkerCad) offer another website with specific step-by-step projects in 3D Design and Circuitry where teachers can create a classroom assign students projects. This site: https://projectignite.autodesk.com/ integrates with Google Classroom too. I use this as a support for students who struggle diving into TinkerCad as the step-by-step projects work well with students needing a little more scaffolding and guidance. This site is also excellent for those students that enjoy working with TinkerCad projects for pleasure not for assignments.