I work as a programs librarian in a regional public library and was recently asked to run a session on 3D modelling, which is a skill I had considered learning in the past but I had been hesitant as I didn’t think I had the appropriate technical knowledge to grasp even the basics. However, due to the inescapability of technology in modern society, it’s important for libraries to provide our users with access to tech resources which allow them to create and innovate (Australian Library and Information Association, 2021, p. 60) so I decided to take the plunge.
In order to learn the basics of 3D modelling, I decided the
best way to learn was via hands on experience. Tinkercad is a free online resource
which doesn’t require prior experience with programming and primarily uses drag
and drop techniques to group pre-formed shapes together to create a 3D model (Horvath & Cameron, 2018, Chapter 6 '3D Models', Tinkercad: Drag and
Drop section, para. 1). Despite my previous hesitance, I did find
Tinkercad easier than anticipated to use.
I experimented with the software and created a basic
mushroom design (Image 1) but wanted to try something more complex. I completed
the tutorials available on Tinkercad and while these cover basics of moving the
shapes around, they do not cover more sophisticated designs. I then turned to
some YouTube tutorials that I could follow along with to create something that merged
many shapes together. Following two tutorials, I modelled an egg cup (Image 2) as
designed by RedRockingBird (2023) and a teddy bear (Image 3) as designed by 1DAY_1CAD:Tinkercad3DDesign (2021).
The gaps in my knowledge are many since I have learned only
very basic skills, however, I know enough to lead a beginners workshop for
young people. I am also aware that
Tinkercad requires children to have a parent or guardian sign a physical form
agreeing to Tinkercad’s terms and conditions. Teachers can do this on behalf of
students, which I believe is a quicker process as the parental permission form
takes several days for Tinkercad to approve. I will need to ascertain whether
that’s an option for librarians and put that in place before running a program,
or devise a way around this that enables Tinkercad account set up in advance
for participants.
After completed this activity, I still felt concerned about
not being particularly knowledgeable about 3D modelling, however, research into
the topic of STEAM programs in libraries turned up an article by Mitchell et al. (2020, p. 8) referencing the ‘guide on the
side’ concept, wherein the best way to elicit learning is by allowing the
learners to experiment and work with their peers to find solutions, since it
isn’t possible for librarians to know everything about every subject. In fact,
with technologies changing and advancing constantly, it is becoming more
important than ever to continue to build skills in problem solving, critical
thinking, flexibility, self direction and teamwork (Jacobs, 2018, p. 70), which is exactly what we do when we step back
and allow children to take the lead in their own learning.
References
1DAY_1CAD:Tinkercad3DDesign.
(2021, May 17). [1DAY_1CAD] BEAR DOLL
(Tinkercad : know-how / style / education). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fs2h1acNG38&ab_channel=1DAY_1CAD%3ATinkercad3DDesign
Australian Library
and Information Association, A. P. L. A. (2021). APLA-ALIA standards and
guidelines for Australian public libraries, May 2021. In. Deakin, ACT:
Australian Library and Information Association.
Horvath, J., &
Cameron, R. (2018). Mastering 3D printing
in the classroom, library, and lab (1st 2018. ed.). Apress. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4842-3501-0
Jacobs, B. R.
(2018). Transforming your library into a
learning playground : a practical guide for public librarians. Libraries
Unlimited, an imprint of ABC-CLIO, LLC.
Mitchell, B.,
Ratcliffe, C., & LaConte, K. (2020). STEAM learning in public libraries: a
“guide on the side” approach for inclusive learning. Children & Libraries, 18(3),
7-10. https://doi.org/10.5860/cal.18.3.7
RedRockingBird. (2023, January 21). TINKERCAD for beginners - simple basic tutorial tinker cad [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukgH_tLoQNg&ab_channel=RedRockingBird
Tinkercad. https://www.tinkercad.com/
Wow! It looks amazing! Learning 3D modelling through Tinkercad is inspiring and underscores the importance of embracing new technologies to empower library users. Your willingness to step out of your comfort zone and engage in hands-on learning exemplifies the spirit of growth and innovation essential in modern library programming. Your experience with Tinkercad highlights the accessibility of digital resources like online tutorials and platforms for beginners, allowing individuals with varying levels of technical expertise to explore and create. Your exploration of more complex designs, such as the egg cup and teddy bear, demonstrates your commitment to expanding your skills and knowledge in 3D modelling. Recognizing the gaps in your knowledge and addressing concerns about parental consent for Tinkercad accounts reflect a proactive approach to program planning and participant safety. Your research into the 'guide on the side' concept and the importance of fostering problem-solving and critical thinking skills in STEAM programs reinforces the value of experiential learning and student-led exploration. Your journey into 3D modelling exemplifies the transformative potential of library programs in facilitating hands-on learning and fostering digital literacy skills among young people. Keep up the fantastic work in empowering your community through technology and innovation!
ReplyDeleteHi Megan, your dive into Tinkercad for 3D modelling is a fantastic example of how digital tools can make complex skills more accessible. It reminds me a lot of my experience with Scratch, which also uses a drag-and-drop interface to simplify coding for beginners. Both platforms are great for sparking creativity and problem-solving. The hands-on learning approach is really effective, as I found with Scratch's tutorials (Hu, 2024).
ReplyDeleteThe "guide on the side" strategy you mentioned is spot on. Letting learners experiment and work together is a great way to build not just technical skills, but also critical thinking and teamwork. This is especially important given how quickly technology evolves (Miller, 2018). By taking a step back and facilitating rather than instructing, we help young learners become more confident and capable with new tech. Your efforts to bridge knowledge gaps and lead workshops show the adaptability and resourcefulness that are so important in today’s libraries.
Hu, L. (2024). Programming and 21st century skill development in K‐12 schools: A multidimensional meta‐analysis. Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, 40(2), 610–636. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcal.12904
Miller, T. (2018). Developing numeracy skills using interactive technology in a play-based learning environment. International Journal of Stem Education, 5(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40594-018-0135-2