Week 1 – Introduction and setup of Fusion 360

Objective:

• Overview: Introduce the Fusion 360 EDU Program and its relevance to your EC&I 831 class.
• Setup: Describe the process of downloading and installing Fusion 360.
• First Impressions: Share your initial thoughts on the software interface and features.

Getting registered to use the Fusion 360 EDU version was quite a frustrating process. Unlike simply clicking a button to access the program, I had to connect with Autodesk, the platform that provides access to multiple tools, including Fusion 360. This involved sending in proof of employment documentation and waiting for approval. Once approved, I was granted access and became the school division administrator for the program. This role allows me to provide access to up to 250 staff and students, which will be incredibly useful as I roll out the program from grades 7 to 12.

In today’s digital age, the ability to learn and share knowledge online has become more accessible than ever. For my EC&I 831 class, I have chosen to learn the Fusion 360 EDU Program, a complex and valuable skill that aligns perfectly with the course’s criteria. Here’s why this learning journey is significant for me:

Complexity

Fusion 360 is a sophisticated design and engineering software that requires more than just a few hours to master. Its complexity makes it a worthwhile endeavor, as it offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 3D modeling and simulation.. By learning Fusion 360, I am not only gaining a valuable skill but also enhancing my ability to tackle complex design challenges which can be applied to support teachers and students in our school division.

Personal Interest

As someone passionate about CAD, Fusion 360 is of great interest to me. The ability to create and test designs in a virtual environment opens up endless possibilities for innovation and creativity.  I feel that due to ever increasing costs in education.  The more you can create virtually the better.  This will ensure that less waist occurs to finite resources.  This will keep me motivated and engaged throughout the learning process, for I see how I can support others within the school division.  What “fills my bucket” is that I want to be a service to teachers and students.

Online Resources

To guide my project, I will leverage a variety of online resources, including especially online communities, videos, text resources, and podcasts. These resources will provide diverse perspectives and techniques, enriching my learning experience. Additionally, I will seek out resources from Autodesk with their assigned learning community called “Fusion Hub”.  I will also from the computer group I teach on the weekend.  I have students that have experience using Fusion 360 EDU.  So, I will also collaborate with students and peers as much as possible.  This combination of online and local resources will ensure a well-rounded and comprehensive learning journey.

Time Commitment

I am prepared to dedicate approximately 30 hours to this project, as recommended. This time commitment will allow me to delve deeply into the software, practice regularly, and document my progress consistently. By investing this time, I will be able to achieve a significant level of proficiency in Fusion 360.  I have schedule times when I will be working on Fusion 360 and will look at opportunity to refine my skills by looking for opportunities where I can construct items to support learning by developing 3d print resources.

Process-Oriented Learning

This project is largely process-oriented, focusing on regular and consistent documentation of my learning journey. I will include before and after write ups in the form of weekly blog posts with images and videos.  I foresee creating how to videos in particular which will complement a lesson plan and learning resources.   Last but now least I will as provide a write up each week on how the learning process is coming along.  This documentation will not only demonstrate my progress but also serve as a valuable resource for others who wish to learn Fusion 360.

Role as School Division Administrator

As the school division administrator for the Fusion 360 EDU Program, I have the responsibility to provide access to up to 250 staff and students. Learning Fusion 360 thoroughly will enable me to support and guide others effectively as they embark on their own learning journeys. This will be particularly useful as I roll out the program from grades 7 to 12, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity within the school division.

By learning Fusion 360 and sharing my progress openly, I am not only enhancing my own skills but also contributing to a broader community of learners. This project will demonstrate my ability to use technology to support and document learning, and it will showcase the power of online resources in achieving alignment with Saskatchewan learning outcomes.