class:middle # Learning, interactions, and technology --- class:middle I approached my final project with a focus on **learning tools.** > ## Doing with images makes symbols. > – *Alan Kay, 1987* --- I wanted to apply Kay's insight to my own background, **engineering and technology.** My own education in engineering was full of challenges and struggles, and I saw the positive impacts of **kinesthetic, hands-on learning.** <br> > #### How can I make engineering and technology more accessible to non-experts? > #### How can I get kids excited about diving into the complexity of these subjects? --- #### Draw a bicycle from memory.  --- class:middle .left-column[#### Conceptualizing 3D mental models: Building with construction toys ] .right-column[ #### Developing spatial skills: Learning a vocabulary  ] --- #### The next step in construction: digital fabrication .left-column[   *"We don't teach 3d yet because 3d is hard for kids"* ] .right-column[   Steep learning curve for existing CAD Cumbersome interactions ] ---  <!-- * Construction toys can't help with all the aspects vocabulary of 3D modeling * Understanding how parts can make a whole, building blocks of construction * What about subtraction? I think we want a diagram here. --> ---  ---  ---  ---  --- class: middle Thus, my design challenge: ### How might we teach children the basics of 3d modeling in a fun, playful way that gets them engaged in imagining and materialzing complex creations? --- class:middle > #### How can I make 3d modeling more accessible to non-experts by creating new interaction paradigms for creation that are intuitive and unconstrained by existing digital tools? > #### How can I get kids excited about diving into the complexity of 3d modeling and geometry by developing mental models and spatial vocabulary? --- class:middle I'm taking an experimental approach to the next 7 weeks: > * **User driven** > e.g. 3D modeling class/workshop, gesture brainstorming > * **Interaction driven** > e.g. 2D and 3D boolean geometry activities, paper folding as 3d modeling gestures > * **Technology driven** > e.g. Kinect gesture experiments, CAD camera controller, Open Frameworks --- class:middle I want to keep my **learning goals** in mind. * Maximize my own learning * Construct compelling narratives * Refine skills in graphic design, aesthetics * Experiment with browser-based technologies --- 7 weeks left...  --- class:middle I acknowledge that there's a lot of stuff. Here's some feedback I'm looking for... - How to prototype "smart" and move quickly - The best way to approach testing with kids - Techniques for planning and acquiring user research - If there's a particular focus that's more interesting --- class:middle What I've already done... * Looked at existing research. * Interviewed a middle school design teacher. * Observed a 6th grade design class. * Interviewed 2 experts in 3D printing.