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Week 3

Assignments

This week, I worked on creating a vertical weaving loom using the laser cutter. I designed the loom myself in Adobe Illustrator, aiming to generate a durable, precise tool that students can use directly in the classroom. My goal was to solve the problem I had experienced with cardboard looms, which were fragile and difficult to manage. By creating a sturdy laser-cut loom, students can focus on exploring weaving techniques without struggling with the tool itself. This project demonstrates how digital fabrication can combine precision, durability, and hands-on creativity.

Steps followed

  • I designed an original vertical loom in Illustrator, I used grids and rulers to ensure functionality of the tool. When finished I saved the file in the SVG format.
  • I prepared the material (thin plywood) and positioned it on the laser cutter bed.
  • I uploaded the Illustrator design file to the laser cutter software light burn, set the correct cutting parameters for the material, and previewed the layout.
  • I ran the laser cutter and carefully removed the cut pieces once the process was complete. -I tested the loom to ensure it worked properly. I concluded the design is functional but I also think it can be improved.
  • The finished loom is now ready for students to use, providing a strong, durable and manageable tool for their weaving projects.

Photos / screenshots of key stages

Challenges and solutions

Challenge: The slow process to design the digital resource to print. Possible solutions: Look for files shared on the Internet.

Reflection

One or two educational activities in which I could integrate the laser cutter at some stage of the activity. Students could design tools such as stencils, weaving looms, or sculpture pieces, that allow them to explore construction and design functionality. These types of activities promote visual spatial awareness and design thinking skills, they help students understand how digital tools along with creative designs can transform ideas into real life useful objects.

Reflection on my own practice. When I prepare a lesson activity what are the things that I take into consideration? What are the critical aspects? What additional aspects I need to take into consideration if you utilize digital fabrication processes? When I prepare a lesson activity, I consider several key aspects: the learning objectives, the materials and resources available, the students’ age and skill level, and the engagement and accessibility of the activity. Critical aspects include alignment with curriculum goals, and ensuring that students have opportunities to explore and experiment with the motor skills needed for the activities. When incorporating digital fabrication processes, I would have to think also about operation and safety rules, machine settings and maintenance, material selection, availability and prices, files to use and the outcomes or result of the activities to develop.

Reflection on my past educational activities. How have I considered Socio-Emotional learning (or soft-skills) when preparing the activities? Can I provide some concrete examples? How have I changed your perspective on socio-emotional learning / soft-skill / horizontal competences after this lecture. In past activities, I have intentionally designed tasks to foster collaboration, communication, creativity, and reflection. For example, during a collaborative mural project, students share responsibilities, choose and adapt options provided by others in their groups, reflect on their contributions, which strengthens empathy, patience, and problem-solving skills. Another example is a giving feedback activity, where students express what they like about others’ projects and what they would add or how they would adapt to their personality, however this has to be guided to avoid crushing other people’s feelings. I think my perspective is bigger now, and helps me provide my students with a message of not giving up if they are not successful the first time that they try.

Tools

  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Laser cutter
  • Light Burn software
  • Thin plywood sheets
  • Laser cutter bed