At its core, the Bug Machines studio was designed to answer a single, provocative question: What happens when learners are given real tools, real constraints, and permission to build? Rather than a one-off project, Bug Machines represents a living laboratory where design thinking, CAD, electronics, and coding converge. It is one of the clearest demonstrationsContinue reading “Bug Machines: Where Play Evolves into Engineering”
Tag Archives: 3d-printing
Blueprint for the Modern Learner
Ascension Learning advocates for an evolving educational approach that prioritizes curiosity, creativity, confidence, and modern digital skills. Emphasizing inquiry-based and project-based learning, they aim to foster resilience and identity in learners. Their comprehensive framework supports students in becoming active creators and critical thinkers for future challenges in a digital landscape.
Building the Future: Integrating CAD and 3D Printing into Education for 21st-Century Skill Development
I. Introduction: The New Frontier of Learning The educational landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, shifting its focus from acquiring content knowledge to cultivating essential 21st-century skills, including creation, collaboration, and innovation. At the forefront of this evolution are Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and 3D printing technologies, which are rapidly evolving from specialized tools reserved forContinue reading “Building the Future: Integrating CAD and 3D Printing into Education for 21st-Century Skill Development”
Equipping Students with CAD and 3D Printing for Real-World Skills and Innovation
CAD and 3D printing are fundamental tools transforming education at Ascension Learning. They empower students to transition from passive consumers to active creators through hands-on, iterative learning experiences. By integrating these technologies into the curriculum, students develop technical skills, critical thinking, and real-world competencies necessary for future careers.
Bug Machines Day 10: From Studio to Showcase — Learning Made Public
Exhibition Day was a bustling event where students showcased their inventions, captivating the audience. The Ascension interns highlighted their creations, reflecting on their learning journey. We express gratitude to the Santa Fe physics department for their support, enhancing student experiences to a professional level. For updates, visit our blog and subscribe.
Bug Machines Day 9: Refinement, Storytelling & Exhibition Prep
On the final day of preparation for their exhibition, students are refining their presentations and practicing their talks. They have transformed theoretical ideas into remarkable projects within a week. The team’s hard work and creativity have led to impressive results, showcasing their skills and dedication to the community.
Bug Machines Day 7: From Scaffolds to Independent Systems
This post is part of Bug Machines, a hands-on engineering studio where learners design, build, wire, code, and iterate on insect-inspired machines. The experience blends design thinking, systems engineering, creative problem-solving, and maker confidence—all through real tools and real constraints. Bug Machines Studio — Day 7 of 10— 🐞🐞🐞🐞🐞🐞🐞◻◻◻← Day 6 · Today: Control &Continue reading “Bug Machines Day 7: From Scaffolds to Independent Systems”
Bug Machines Day 5: Mechatronics, Motion & Risk-Free Iteration
On Day 5 of the project, students engaged in ultra-rapid prototyping, experimenting with electronic components and mechanics. This hands-on approach fostered spatial reasoning and basic CAD skills. As teams advanced their robotic claw designs, they also learned advanced programming in C and C++. The experience emphasized practical application and risk-taking in learning.
Bug Machines Day 2: Problem Framing, Constraints & CAD Modeling
This post describes the second day of the Bug Machines engineering studio, where learners engage in designing insect-inspired machines. Key activities include deepening CAD skills, exploring local insects, and learning about constraints in additive manufacturing. Students combine biological study with design to lay groundwork for future system-building in engineering.
BAB Day 7
A quick glimpse of our day today: iterate We’re halfway through our final week and our students have produced some amazing things! Their holds, the ones our students designed and printed, have fully replaced our “store bought” holds and they have started building routes. 10 days ago these students had little to no experience inContinue reading “BAB Day 7”