3. Week 03

For this week’s assignment, I created a flower model to support my biology lessons. I wanted to make the structure of a flower more visible and interactive for students. I used different digital fabrication tools to bring my idea to life. Through this process, I improved my skills in 3D modeling, laser cutting, and working with new materials. It also helped me understand how digital tools can make science lessons more engaging

Flower model

I designed with Blender and printed 2 parts with a 3D printer.

I cut the flower leaves out of felt with a laser machine, and the stamens made from copper wire.

photo with me

Reflection Questions

Are you planning to use the fabricated object in your classroom? If so, how? Yes, the model of the flower structure will be used as a hands-on teaching tool in biology lessons. Students can interact with the model to explore the different parts of a flower, understand their functions, and see how they connect. This tactile approach enhances learning and engagement.

Think of a learning activity involving 3D printing. How could it be aligned with your curriculum/standards? What are the challenges? A learning activity could involve students designing their own 3D models of plant structures using Blender or Tinkercad. This aligns with the curriculum by incorporating biology and digital literacy standards. Challenges include ensuring students have enough time to learn the design tools, troubleshooting technical issues with the 3D printer, and managing material costs.

Have you started an educational portfolio? Why or why not? Yes, starting an educational portfolio helps document and showcase projects, reflecting on the learning process and outcomes. It serves as a valuable resource for sharing best practices and demonstrating professional growth.

In your opinion, what are the advantages of having these education portfolios? How do you evaluate the success of a learning activity and keep track of possible modifications/improvement ideas? Educational portfolios offer a structured way to document teaching innovations, share achievements, and improve lesson planning. Success is evaluated through student engagement, understanding, and feedback. Notes on what worked well and what could be improved are kept for future iterations, ensuring continuous refinement of activities.