4. Field Activity 02: ScaleSpace

A hands-on project where students explore the solar system by creating scaled 3D models of celestial objects, combining science, technology, and creativity.

Lesson Idea: Exploring the Solar System Through Digital Fabrication

In this interdisciplinary lesson, students will delve into the wonders of the solar system by designing and creating scale models of planets, moons, and other celestial objects. Using 3D modeling software, they will digitally construct accurate representations of these objects based on astronomical data. The models will then be fabricated using 3D printers and displayed in the classroom to visualize the relative sizes within the solar system.

This project integrates physics, astronomy, and technology, encouraging students to develop skills in mathematical scaling, digital design, and hands-on fabrication. By collaborating in teams, students will not only enhance their understanding of scientific concepts but also build 21st-century skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. The final classroom installation serves as a powerful visual aid, making the abstract scales of space tangible and fostering curiosity about our universe.

Lesson Idea: Exploring the Solar System Through Digital Fabrication

In this lesson, students will delve into the wonders of the solar system by designing and creating scale models of planets, moons, and other celestial objects. Using 3D modeling software, they will digitally construct accurate representations of these objects based on astronomical data. The models will then be fabricated using 3D printers and displayed in the classroom to visualize the relative sizes within the solar system.

This project integrates physics, astronomy, and technology, encouraging students to develop skills in mathematical scaling, digital design, and hands-on fabrication. By collaborating in teams, students will not only enhance their understanding of scientific concepts but also build 21st-century skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity. The final classroom installation serves as a powerful visual aid, making the abstract scales of space tangible and fostering curiosity about our universe.

Learning objektives

1. Subject Area Objectives:
2. Students will understand the relative sizes of planets and moons in the solar system through scale modeling.

3. Students will explore the concept of proportionality and its application in representing astronomical objects.

4. Technology and Digital Fabrication Objectives:

5. Students will design 3D models of celestial objects using CAD software, adhering to precise scale measurements.
6. Students will operate a 3D printer to fabricate their models, understanding the basic principles of digital fabrication.

Lesson Plan

• Lesson Plan on Scopes DF

Gallery

Reflection on “ScaleSpace” Lesson

1. Student Engagement: The use of digital fabrication technology significantly increased student engagement and motivation. Many students were excited to use 3D printers to create tangible models of the solar system. The hands-on nature of the project allowed them to actively participate in the learning process, making abstract concepts like scale and size more relatable. However, some students were less engaged in the early stages when the design and research took time, as they were eager to move to the printing phase. Despite this, the novelty of creating something they could physically hold and display in the classroom helped maintain overall enthusiasm throughout the project.

2. Student Learning Outcomes: The digital fabrication component was highly effective in helping students achieve the learning objectives. It enabled them to apply mathematical and scientific concepts in a practical way, reinforcing their understanding of scale, proportion, and the sizes of celestial objects. The process of 3D modeling also introduced them to new technological skills that were integrated into their learning. An unexpected outcome was how some students demonstrated enhanced creativity and problem-solving skills while refining their models and troubleshooting printing issues. The collaborative nature of the project also improved their teamwork and communication skills, which were not initially anticipated.

3. Instructional Challenges: One of the primary challenges I faced was managing the time required for 3D printing. Despite having four Bambu Lab X1C printers, the printing process was slow, and starting prints between classes was logistically difficult. To address this, I set up a schedule to print models outside of class hours, which helped manage the workload but still resulted in delays. Additionally, while most students excelled in using the CAD software, a few struggled with the technical aspects of 3D modeling and needed extra support. Providing more individual guidance and simplifying some of the design steps could have helped mitigate these struggles.

4. Teacher Growth: This experience has deepened my understanding of the potential of digital fabrication in the classroom. I’ve learned how to better plan and manage time-sensitive tasks like 3D printing, and I now realize the importance of having additional support for students who may struggle with the technology. I have also developed a stronger ability to balance the technical aspects of a project with its educational goals. Moving forward, I will look for ways to streamline the printing process and offer more targeted support for students at different levels of technological proficiency. Additionally, this project has reaffirmed the value of integrating technology in creative ways to enhance student learning and engagement.