Week02

Assignments

1. Design and cut a sticker (or heat transfer) for your classroom/context that reflects your understanding of the maker mindset /maker movement in education. I had the opportunity to use the critcut which is a vinyl printer that Javier Monterroso showed me to use.

Process

2. Document in your Learning Diary a description of the process and at least 2 photos. (We prefer to see you in a photo as well!) Steps followed I started learning how to use the vinyl machine. Simple but not usual steps like following some steps related with software, testing the board and putting the vinyl paper in place. Then press different buttons and selecting the design. The machine I used was a Cripcut. I felt very thrilled by doing this for the first time in my life. My purpose was to explore the machine and print my design which was a sticker that will represent my new Maker Space. Let me give some context. Exactly one year ago I started a very formal proposal about the new remodeling process for my STEAM lab. That has many implications like budget, new machines and deep changes in the curriculum. I was heard so the change is not going to happen from the day to night but it started. One of the things I will have is a new space, reason for which I thought in a random name from my brainstorm of names: Innovation planet. Well, to be honest that idea came up to me when Javier showed me the cricut accessibility for images and I found a rocket that I can use for free.

Challenges and solutions Since this machines is all new for me. I recognize that I need to practice many times but at least I feel confident having the first experience. Then I learned by trial and error.

Reflection

**Based on this week experience, What are some opportunties to integrate this technology in the classroom?

Besides learning on how to use a vinyl cutter machine I consider that I can integrate this machine to the Maker proposal because it will offer me, students and teachers a new way to design and create different ideas using something new. Specially I think it would be very friendly with the youngest ones when they need to design and print a integrated project. There opportunities to integrate technology because students can also used other design/vectorials through the use of other platforms like Canva, Inskspace etc.

How do you think it could support your teaching?

I can design for my students new classroom messages related with creativity, solving problems, collaboration etc. I can design my own stickers that support positive reinforcement in the community like the 4B’s (be respecful, be kind, be responsible and be safe).

**Shortly describe an educational activity in which you could use a vinyl cutter. **

Following up on the STEAM transformation I could get my students involved in designung their spaces. Since I teach the Engineering Design Process and Designing thinking process I would present the need or the problem and I will let the design, plan and create their ideas. The idea that fits or responds to the problem and needs will be part of the change in the lab. The objectives will be to develop a idea through the engineering Design Process.

In which part of the digital fabrication continuum (DF for kids to DF by kids) would you feel more comfortable? Why? I will feel more conformable with DFK since my students are quite young so they need to be guided in the process of using a machine.

Tools

• Cricut
• Computer