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”
Tag Archives: design-thinking
Reimagining Assessment in an AI-Powered World
The Challenge The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is forcing us to rethink how we assess learning. Traditional assessments—standardized tests, multiple-choice quizzes, and essay-based exams—were designed for a pre-AI world. But now, AI-powered tools can solve math problems, write persuasive essays, and generate creative content in seconds. If AI can complete a student’s assignmentContinue reading “Reimagining Assessment in an AI-Powered World”
Designing Solutions, Inspiring Change: PBL, IBL, and Design Thinking in Action
The integration of Project-Based Learning (PBL), Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL), and Design Thinking cultivates critical skills in students, enabling them to address real-world challenges. By engaging in projects like providing clean water and creating pollinator gardens, students enhance their empathy, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility.
Unlocking Innovation in Education: How Inquiry-Based and Project-Based Learning Amplify Design Thinking
Incorporating Inquiry-Based Learning (IBL) and Project-Based Learning (PBL) within a design thinking framework enhances education by fostering critical problem-solving skills, creativity, and collaboration among students. These approaches encourage active exploration of real-world challenges, empowering students to take ownership of their learning and become adaptable, empathetic innovators ready for future complexities.
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 8: User Testing, Iteration & Functional Convergence
The team is extensively user-testing and refining their bug-inspired machines, utilizing various electronics and mechanics. They are gearing up for an exhibit, showcasing prototypes like a morphing scorpion. Feedback from other groups has been valuable, leading to a fourth iteration that aims to showcase both functionality and design.
Bug Machines Day 4: Rapid Prototyping, Materials & Making Ideas Physical
Students engaged in research and teamwork, transforming their ideas into reality by modeling. They interviewed each other, sketched concepts, and learned about fasteners while assembling 3D printed robotic claw parts. After a presentation on ultra-rapid prototyping, they constructed initial 3D models of their bug machine designs using various materials.
Bug Machines Day 3: Circuits, Coding & Curiosity
Today, we introduced circuits with a presentation on creating a traffic light using Tinkercad and Scratch coding. Local entomologist Dr. Tom Dykstra shared his expertise on insect olfaction and brought hundreds of hissing cockroaches for students to explore. Students engaged in idea generation, forming teams around their favorite “How might we…” statements.
BAB Day 4
A quick glimpse of our day today: ideate and model Day 4 was all about transitioning from abstract ideas to 2D sketches to 3D models and our students blew it out of the water! Our students’ models are incredibly diverse. One team is building holds based on a story they dreamed up, one team hasContinue reading “BAB Day 4”