‘ThingMaker’ is the latest offering from AutoDesk and designed to go with Mattel’s new 3D printer for home use. It’s based on the same design as Tinkerplay which we have used before at Oakleigh – in Year 4’s Rowan of Rin study.
We have been on the lookout for an app that would enable some 3D printing and design for younger students and this may well fit the bill. It allows design of a toy like creature or a piece of simple jewellery.
The user selects the design first………
and then are guided in putting it together.
They are able to change pieces or to use the basic template design.
Colour is an option…..and backgrounds are a possibility also.
When the design is ready – it is organised onto the printing plates.
It’s going to be interesting to explore options within curriculum with the younger students. Areas within Science and Biological Sciences deal with external features of animals and habitats which meet animal’s needs. Both of these areas hold potential for the use of this app and process to deepen understanding.
Additionally, within English, examination and exploration of character within the narrative genre could be enhanced through the creation of a character that matches the author’s description.