Assistive Device Academy

A human-centred design project where students create a range of assistive devices for people with disabilities. Developed in collaboration with Makers Making Change. Access this lesson for FREE at the bottom of the page.

Lesson Overview

The lesson 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.

Subject Areas

The lesson can be incorporated into the study of maths, physics, design technology and computing. The material can be adapted for ages 10-16. The curriculum is aligned to ISTE, NGSS, CCSS and UK National Curriculum standards. A comprehensive list of standards met is included in the lesson platform.

In this project students will:

  • develop an understanding of assistive devices and their benefit to people with disabilities

  • develop an understanding of how open source collaboration and 3D printing can positively impact the production and distribution of assistive devices

  • use research, design-thinking, human-centred design and sketching skills in teams to develop a concept for an assistive device

        • use 3D modelling software to design an assistive device

        • use 3D printers to manufacture an assistive device

        • analyse their work and the work of their peers to suggest improvements to their designs

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