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Overview


The project begins with students learning about affordable, open source assistive technologies through a case study video and example models 3D printed by the teacher prior to the lesson. Following the overview, students participate in a range of skill-building CAD tutorials to design several example devices – providing them with the necessary skills to design their own unique products.


In the main part of the project, students work in teams and are guided by design instructions to develop an assistive device for a real user. The design journey involves human-centred design principles, whereby an individual user is identified before concepts are developed to solve the daily challenges of the user. Finally, ideas are transferred to CAD software before being 3D printed and presented to the rest of the class, as well as the end user.


Included Resources


Curriculum alignment documents (ISTE, NGSS, CCSS and UK National Curriculum Standards)


Assistive device case study videos (hosted on PrintLab's student portal)


Example assistive devices (STL files)


Tinkercad and fusion 360 tutorials that guide students in designing a range of assistive devices (videos hosted on PrintLab's student portal)


Assistive technology explainer video (hosted on PrintLab's student portal)


Editable design instructions worksheet (PDF and Google Docs)


Editable assessment rubric (PDF and Google Docs)