Over the past 4 weeks I utilized my professional learning networks (PLN) to learn a new skill, computer aided design (CAD), with a tool that could be used by students. I began by reflecting and considering the TPACK model. In order to teach 3D modeling I needed to work on technological and content knowledge of the subject Mishra & Koehler (2006). So off I went to find a CAD tool that fit the bill and learn to use it. Read on, or Check out the video below to see a recap of my learning process.
Video by Chad Riffle
PLN To the Rescue
I have access to multiple affinity groups with many diversified experts in educational technology. I reached out to two groups for tool ideas with mixed results. The West Michigan Ed Tech Leaders (WMETL) had no solutions and multiple questions about my plan. At least I know there is excitement for the project. The REMC Instructional Technology Specialists (RITS) had many ideas. Two surfaced as viable options. Both options being free helped me avoid widening the existing societal gaps that Winner (1980) wrote a warning about in "Do Artifacts Have Politics?" I dug into the links provided quickly realizing that Blender was not going to work because of device limitations in my region. Tinkercad on the other hand is web based, built for educators, and COPPA compliant with a well laid out Children's Privacy Statement. Thanks to my affinity groups I am confident in the tool and it's ability to be utilized in a classroom.
Digging in with Social Media
I began by creating an account and attempting to make a simple smiley face, quickly realizing that I needed help. Thankfully a robust PLN gave me the confidence to dig in. I first went to the verified official @tinkercad Twitter account. The Twitter account ended up pulling my focus away from learning as it was full of project ideas. While interesting, I needed to learn the basics first. The Tinkercad Blogs page was full of useful resources. A keyboard shortcuts PDF ended up being one of my go to resources as I learned to navigate and manipulate in Tinkercad. I was off to the races, but what next.
YouTube: the How To of 21st Century Learning
In Hindsight I should have begun digging in with YouTube. I had no clue what I didn't know at this point. Searching YouTube I quickly found many introduction videos and even a playlist dedicated to using Tinkercad for 3D printing. Chaos Core Tech's playlist gave me the missing pieces I didn't know I needed. He didn't just tell what the tools did, he explained why I would need the tools to ensure a perfect 3D print. I learned how to create workspace planes to ensure the model was level, type in exact shape dimensions, and about utilizing negative space. Combining these tools he expertly created advanced shapes in creative ways that my beginner brain didn't even consider highlighting one of the six critical differences among experts and learners that Bransford et al. wrote about in "How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience and School." I applied my new learning to version 2 of my smiley face and was pleasantly surprised by how finished it looked. It was time to run a test print, which led me to my final problem. I don't own a 3D printer.
Once Again PLN to the Rescue
I reached out again to my WMETL group asking to borrow a printer. Within 2 hours I had an offer to drop one off at my workplace after school for a test print. Four days later my final product is amazing. I went from a model that wouldn't have printed to a finished 3D smiley face with hair like mine in 4 weeks.
Final Thoughts
This experience taught me that the old saying "It's not what you know, but who you know" has merit beyond landing you a job. I was able to learn a completely new skill simply because of "who" I knew with my PLN. I will continue to expand and support my network in anticipation for the next big challenge.
References:
Bransford, J., Brown, A.L. & Cocking, R. R. (2000). How people learn: Brain, mind, experience and school. National Academy Press. http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?isbn=0309070368.
Chad Riffle. (2022, February 20). Final Thoughts. [Video]. Adobe Premiere. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1M_oo4ltYJyx76V4dpk-AHosTCGASiEeZ/view?usp=sharing
Mishra, P., & Koehler, M. J. (2006). Technological pedagogical content knowledge: A framework for teacher knowledge. Teachers College Record, 108(6), 1017-1054.
Winner, L. (1980). Do artifacts have politics? Daedalus, 109(1), 121-136. http://www.jstor.org.proxy1.cl.msu.edu/stable/20024652
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