M2 Week 1¶
Assignments¶
Task 1 Design a simple electronic circuit using a simulator: put in a battery, an LED, and a sensor or switch. Use TinkerCAD (or other). Take a screenshot of your circuit for your Learning Diary.
- Circuit Off
- Circuit On
Task 2 Build simple circuits using battery, LED and different conductors: copper film, pencil… Post a photo on your Learning Diary
Reflection¶
Answer the following reflection questions: Imagine an educational activity using simple electronics components (preferably without microcontrollers) that is suitable for the age group that you are teaching. Describe it (provide goals of activity and methodologies). Consider also the role of the kids:
- Description of the Proposed Activity
Students could design and create an illuminated letter by integrating a simple LED circuit behind or around their artwork. The goal is to fuse visual arts with basic electronics in a creative, accessible and fun way. - Students would design a creative letter using artistic elements such as line, texture, color, and shape. - Students would understand how a simple circuit works (power source → conductor → LED). - Students would apply problem-solving as they test conductivity, polarity, and connections.
- Would I classify it as Digital Fabrication for kids or with kids? Why?
I would classify this project as Digital fabrication with kids, because they would be active creators; they’ll make desicions on design, they’ll build their circuit and teacher would only be guiding the process.
- What are the challenges of using electronics in your space?
I think fragility of material can be a challenge, since copper tape can break easily and cause malfunction but this is why testing is necessary before completing the design.
How can this support your students in learning classroom content?
I teach art, so I think this including simple circuits in design can be a fun and interesting way to deliver creative ideas that reflect out of the box thinking, students can learn that technology can be included into art design and come up with fresh ideas and also build their confidence by working on problem solving getting the results they planned.
What has been your experience using Project Based Learning / Problem based learning in the past? What were the main challenges?
I have used PBL in art projects that involve planning, research, and creating (e.g., collaborative art, sculpture challenges). Students typically enjoy the independence and creativity. Some students might find overwhelmed if the results they were expecting are not solved on the first try, but this is something that can be worked on and anticipated while going through the lessons. Time management has also been a challenge for this type of projects since some students might work faster than others but a suggestion for that is to stablish specific steps to follow for each class so that everyone goes smoothly through the lesson, of course flexibility is needed but clear structure alse helps students organize.
Tools¶
- Copper tape
- Led bulb
- 3V battery
- Paper, Markers & Crayons