So I am expanding my repertoire today. I like to learn techniques with Fusion 360 and it is much more complex of a program versus building something on Tinkercad. That said, I attempting to today build a Rekenrek for Jenni Peeke. I have already showed her a prototype that I created in Tinkercad. But now, I have moved on to create one in Fusion 360 as well. I am trying to learn how to use the different tools I have learned from tutorials on Fusion 360 and now apply it to something tangible. Below I have added a video on the description of the Rekenrek Project and the objective:
As I have mentioned in the previous blog posts: Fusion 360 is a powerful tool that combines CAD, CAM, and CAE software into one platform, making it essential for modern design and engineering. Learning Fusion 360 not only equips individuals with a valuable skill but also serves as an excellent opportunity to role model resilience and the power of goal-setting to students. Here are a few points why I think this major project is worth the effort.
1. Personal Growth: Learning how to be a good team player
Committing to learning Fusion 360 by setting a specific project goal, such as designing a 3D model for students to be able to replicate, enhances your and the students’ design and engineering capabilities. While learning new software can be challenging, it’s important to emphasize resilience and continuous improvement. This is a great way to learn how to be open to ideas and to be an effective communicator. You can’t do a project by yourself for it has risks that need to be mitigated.
2. Role Modeling perseverance, resilience and Goal-Setting
Benjamin Bloom mentioned that an educator’s goal is to increase a student’s level of perseverance is by enhancing the frequency evidence of success in learning. Well let’s start with my experience as a learner. I started this process alone and quickly found out that it was important for me to build a community so I can increase evidence of successful learning. This is done by setting a goal, seeing success in your learning which builds resilience and increases your level of perseverance. Through my documenting of my learning journey, including the challenges faced and how you overcame them, demonstrates to me and my students that achieving goals requires dedication and resilience. By sharing your experiences, you show that it’s okay to struggle and that perseverance leads to success, fostering a growth mindset. A growth mindset is the foundation for inquiry based learning in my opinion.
3. Creating a Resource for Teachers
Developing a comprehensive guide for teachers to use Fusion 360 in their classroom can be incredibly valuable. My vision is to first offer this as an option as a Grade 9 survey course. The big picture is we can expand the course to the point students must work together in a Project Based Learning environment to attain a common goal. This survey course would serve as a step-by-step guide, have students learn to “copy” the techniques to complete certain projects. Once they learn the basic skills let them put their creativity in engaging project ideas. Like it was stated in the video “Everything is a Remix” you need to copy endlessly until you can take the next step to creating something unique from the learner/student’s perspective.
4. Teaching Valuable Life Skills for the 21st Century
Integrating Fusion 360 projects with lessons on critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork prepares students for future challenges. These skills are essential for success in the modern world, helping students develop both technical and life skills that will benefit them in various aspects of their lives. I work with students on the weekend where I teach coding. I have one particular group that are very advanced. They are wonderful students and work very hard on their skills in technology. One area they all need to work on is on how to work together as a team. Wow, even getting them to sit in proximity with each other took weeks. Now, with Fusion 360 they were able to share each others work on the assigned project. As mentioned in previous blog posts, I have the students creating a robotic hand from scratch. It’s interesting to see the students realize they can’t complete this project alone. Simply put, you have to make sure all the pieces fit together. Below is an example of the “Wrist” section which will house the servos, Arduino and power source that will manipulate the “Hand” section.
Learning Fusion 360 is more than just acquiring a technical skill; it’s an opportunity to inspire and educate others. By committing to this journey, I hope to role model perseverance, resilience and goal-setting, and create valuable resources for teachers to help students develop both technical and life skills. Embrace the challenge and make a positive impact on the next generation of learners.
5. Realization of the Need for Diverse Learning Materials
When I first started learning Fusion 360, I relied heavily on a single source of material that was directly from Autodesk. While this initial resource provided a solid foundation, I soon realized that mastering such a comprehensive tool required a more diverse approach. The complexity and depth of Fusion 360 meant that I had to find other resources so I could understand it in a more clear fashion. This realization prompted me to seek out additional learning materials to fill in the gaps and broaden my understanding. Some of the learning resources are listed below:
While I am learning at times the projects I am working with students go beyond my ability. So at times we will create something in Fusion 360 and then transfer the STL file back to Tinkercad and will add another piece to the model. This is not my first choice but if there is one positive it is that you are learning to use different platforms to achieve a goal.
Lastly, online courses on platforms offered by Autodesk provides a comprehensive and structured learning paths. These learning modules helped reinforce my learning and track my progress.
So what have I learned to this point?
In today’s digital age, the availability of open education resources has revolutionized the way we learn. Whether you’re learning in isolation or collaborating with others. It truly is a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips. However, the approach you take can significantly impact your learning experience and outcomes. First, you must first understand what type of learner you are. For me, I love to learn kinesthetically, so learning while doing is optimal for me. This blog explores the differences between learning in isolation and working with others, highlighting the benefits of collaborative learning and the importance of setting and meeting learning objectives.
Learning in Isolation
Learning in isolation can be a deeply personal and introspective journey. It allows you to set your own pace, focus on your specific interests, and develop self-discipline. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges. For me I did not have a lot of input due to obvious reasons regarding how I was going to learn Fusion 360. In isolation you may miss the obvious questions that need to be asked. As human being we all have blind spots.
Meeting Learning Objectives
Setting clear learning objectives at the start was and still is a crucial building block to learning. . When learning alone, it’s important to define what you want to achieve and create a roadmap to get there. Tracking your progress against these objectives helps you stay on course and make necessary adjustments. One point that needs to be made is that if you find you are stalling it is critical to look outward for learning resources and outward sources of motivation (more to come on that point). Without the support and feedback from others, it’s easy to feel stuck or overwhelmed. The lack of diverse perspectives can also limit your understanding and creativity.
The Power of Collaborative Learning
Collaborative learning, on the other hand, leverages the collective knowledge and experiences of a group. It transforms the learning process into a shared journey, making it more engaging and effective. For me working with the students was a huge motivator. For one their was exchanging of ideas, people were also willing to support each other when someone had a challenge and wanted to the best input on how to address an issue. With all humility, the students actually pushed me in my learning.
Created by Quotev
Conclusion
Whether you choose to learn in isolation or collaborate with others, open education resources provide a wealth of opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. However, the power of collaborative learning cannot be overstated. By setting clear learning objectives, tracking your progress, and engaging with a community of learners, you can enhance your learning experience and achieve your goals more effectively. Embrace the journey, and don’t be afraid to reach out and learn with others, even if you are the teacher and the ideas are coming from the students. The collective wisdom and support of a learning community can make all the difference.
The world is a tapestry woven from the threads of creativity, and at its core lies the concept of remixing. Remixing is the art of taking existing materials, whether they be musical notes, images, ideas, or even emotions, and transforming them into something new. It’s a process that empowers us to be more creative, allowing us to make music without instruments, build software without coding, and craft complex ideas from simpler ones.
The human species has been copying each other since the beginning of time. From Ancient Times to Contemporary Times the human condition has improved from learning from what people did from the past. In particular with technology and Artificial Intelligence now becoming more prominent in education you can hear from all stakeholders the alarmist tone. Many people would argue that the current education system is now outdated. I would like to think that our educational system is strong and resilient enough to evolve. Just take a moment and ask yourself “our we in the most remarkable shit in education in the history of humankind?”
I think we are, which makes it even more important to address the changes in education through pedagogical lenses. We need to reframe our pedagogical practices in the era of technology and in particular Artificial Intelligence. We will know if we are on the right track with the results we see in our day to day encounter with students and their learning experiences. Teaching social emotional learning and leveraging technology is key. Benjamin Bloom has mentioned the importance of mastery learning skills.
We need to get student engagement in the classroom and I think technology and Artificial Intelligence might be one tool that can help address this issue. In particular I think that 3 pedagogical theories that can have immediate impact during this shift in education would be social/cultural, Behaviorism and constructivism. Why would I mention this. It comes from the video call Everything is a Remix. They make a quote that really rang true for me. Actually, I mentioned a similar sentiment when I was teaching a grade 3/4 class how to code. Yohji Yamamoto stated “Start copying what you love. Copy copy copy copy. At the end of the copy you will find yourself.” I think this is where constructivism really fits in well. Bring in many parts and creativity and have the students make something truly their own. That said it this statement applies to all of us.
In a nutshell, we as a species are always trying to modify past practice to improve efficiency and outcomes. As pointed out in the Everything is a Remix video, you can see it in how we create catchy tunes that we listen to, the games we play, the movies we watch, and the memes we share, remixing is everywhere. How we think is exactly how we have used coding principles as a foundation on how we Artificial Intelligence.
As a drummer I really appreciated how the documentary did a historical dive into music. I am always watching various drummer’s and see what their style is. One such example they mentioned was the technique, known as “breakbeats,” evolved into the core of rap music, with MCs adding rhythmic spoken word over the beats. To find a novel idea that is done by another musician is logical. David Grohl and Steve Smith are incredible musicians and to learn techniques from them is really a no brainer. It simply accelerates your learning curve. I makes you learn how to think outside the box.
Educational pedagogy and remixing helps opens the door for you to use the concepts presented to you to construct something that is a product from yourself. Isn’t that what constructivism is? I was talking to a teacher this past week about how it is important to keep students accountable when it comes to academic integrity. That said I also said that students will look for concepts from the digital world. So how do we achieve academic integrity and students using the digital tools at their disposal? I made a short video for teachers explaining how to track students work so you can see the evolution of their learning.
It’s important as educators to become comfortable with the new educational landscape. The concept of sampling, does not occur only in our classrooms it happens all the time from taking snippets of existing music to trying to make sense of our current world through a meme.
This process of copying, transforming, and combining is not simply a matter of imitation; it’s a vital part of the creative process. It allows us to learn, grow, and ultimately develop our own unique voices and styles.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has introduced a new dimension to the remixing process. Artificial Intelligence systems, trained on vast datasets of images, text, and music, can now generate new creative works, blurring the lines between human and machine creativity. This issue certainly polarizes people. If I want a strong reaction regarding this issue all I need to do is talk to my daughter who is in performing arts. I look forward to the conversation with her ….NOT…. just kidding.
While AI’s ability to synthesize existing information is impressive, it raises ethical questions about the use of copyrighted material and the potential for AI to replace human artists. I think that the issue of diffusion as defined by IBM makes a point. They state “Diffusion models are generative models used primarily for image generation and other computer vision tasks. Diffusion-based neural networks are trained through deep learning to progressively “diffuse” samples with random noise, then reverse that diffusion process to generate high-quality images. So in short I don’t think it’s copyright. It’s taking multiple samples not just from source.
As mentioned another important point is that, AI’s creative potential should not be feared. Instead, it should be seen as a powerful tool that can augment human creativity, allowing us to explore new possibilities and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Ultimately, the future of creativity lies in the hands of humans. As educators we need to foster and promote creativity in our students. They need to work outside the box. Humans are the ones who decide how AI is used, and we are the ones who will shape the future of education and everything beautiful in this world. That said we need to be aware of the draw backs still and place some guiderails so people know how to use the technology in an ethical manner.
As we navigate this new era of technological advancement, we must remember that creativity is a collaborative process. It’s a journey of learning, sharing, and building upon the work of those who came before us.
The world is a remix, and we are all part of the creative symphony.
I am currently feeling more optimistic about my progress on my major assignment. A few weeks ago, I was shaking my head at what did I get myself into regarding a major project. I feel like I took on more then one topic. For that reason I have modified my approach. I initially sourcing materials directly from the company and then moved to exploring open resources, such as YouTube.
Additionally, I have started collaborating with a coding and robotics group, which has proven to be very beneficial. I found that for me working alone on this project would not be enough. Engaging in idea-sharing with peers has enriched my learning experience, allowing me to acquire new knowledge and explore various platforms for capturing and organizing information to assist other educators in teaching Fusion 360. Interestingly enough I have connected with my son who is in computer engineering. It has really enlightened me regarding CAD and a bonus is seeing my son in another light. What a win win scenario.
I have adopted a trial-and-error method to evaluate the effectiveness of my efforts, incorporating the engineering design process to ensure I am maximizing my potential.
I have adopted the engineering design process to this project and have included a graph below with an embed link:
This information I found is from a website called Science Buddies. It is a non-profit organization that provides free STEM resources for K-12 students, teachers, and parents. The website offers over 1,300 project ideas, activities, and lesson plans across various topics. It aims to make STEM learning accessible and engaging through hands-on explorations and collaborations with high-tech companies and universities. I really like this for I have partnered up with Saskatchewan Polytechnic Computer Engineering Program.
The information mentioned above has influenced me on how to approach the Fusion 360 as a major project. I am not just trying to support students and teachers to succeed in STEM. I want students to have a bright future even if that takes them on a post secondary path or not. I must stress as well that students can not just be supported in STEM but also with Digital Citizenship skills. By integrating the Digital Citizenship in Saskatchewan Schools – Policy Planning Guide I am trying to better prepare students to navigate the 21st century opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
On weekends, I have been assisting colleagues with Fusion 360, guiding them in designing a 2D hand and then extruding it into a 3D model. From this foundation, we have been examining models for joint connections and implementing servos and Arduino to control the robotic hand with sensors. This collaborative endeavor has involved significant learning, particularly in supporting others while simultaneously enhancing my understanding of the material. It has also been a challenge to have usually very independent learners to encourage them to work together.
In summary to support myself in this learning journey with Fusion 360 several strategies have now implemented the following:
1. Access to Diverse Resources: Open education offers access to a variety of resources, including tutorials, forums, and videos. Encouraging students to explore these materials can provide them with different explanations and perspectives, aiding their understanding of complex concepts.
2. Collaborative Learning: Open education promotes collaborative learning environments. Students can work together on projects, share insights, and assist each other in problem-solving. This type of peer interaction can enhance understanding and retention of material.
3. Flexible Learning Paths: Learning not to be committed to just one resource but rather using a variety of learning materials and enabling myself to select the best learning path.
4. Practical Application: Working with others in the designing and constructing phase of a robotic hand, helps me apply knowledge in real-world contexts. This practical experience is invaluable for deepening my understanding and skill development.
5. Continuous Feedback: Regular feedback from colleagues is essential in an open education framework. Constructive feedback assists me in identifying areas for improvement and in refining their skills from people that have gone through the same learning journey.
6. Integration of Technology: Utilizing platforms like Fusion 360 and integrating tools such as Arduino for robotics projects has created a natural scaffolding of the project.
By leveraging these strategies, I am maximizing my learning experience. My goal is goal is simple. By accessing resources to address my learning journey needs I have realized I can do the same when working with teachers and students. Hopefully, in the end this will translate in others maximizing their learning experience in the future.
As I continue my journey to master Fusion 360 and develop a series of lesson plans for teachers, I’ve discovered that this process is much like any other plan—it evolves over time. Along the way, I’ve also been learning how to use Clipchamp, a video editing tool included in the office.com enterprise license from Microsoft. This has been an unexpected but valuable detour in my learning path.
Discovering Clipchamp
One of the most interesting features I’ve learned about Clipchamp is its ability to streamline the process of creating instructional videos. When doing a screen capture, instead of downloading the video section, you can send it directly to the media folder in Clipchamp. This feature saves time and keeps everything organized in one place. Here is the intro video of Lesson one:
Why Clipchamp?
You might be wondering why I’m spending so much time on Clipchamp when my main goal is to learn Fusion 360. The answer is simple: by producing a lesson resource for teachers, I’m not only supporting my colleagues but also deepening my understanding of Fusion 360. Creating these resources requires me to thoroughly understand the software, which in turn enhances my own skills.
The Growing Plan
As with any plan, my approach to learning Fusion 360 and creating lesson plans will grow and adapt over time. Each step I take, whether it’s mastering a new feature in Clipchamp or understanding a complex tool in Fusion 360, brings me closer to my goal. This journey is not just about learning software; it’s about building a comprehensive resource that can benefit others.
In today’s digital age, open education offers unparalleled convenience for gathering and learning information. The vast resources available online make it easier than ever to access knowledge from anywhere in the world. However, when it comes to showcasing your learning journey, the convenience of digital learning can sometimes be overshadowed by the challenges of using multiple platforms.
The Convenience of Digital Learning
The digital world provides a wealth of information at our fingertips. Whether it’s through online courses, tutorials, or forums, learners can easily find resources to enhance their understanding of various subjects. This accessibility is a significant advantage, allowing for flexible learning schedules and the ability to learn at one’s own pace.
Challenges in Showcasing Learning
Despite the convenience, there are times when the process of showcasing what you’ve learned can be fraught with difficulties. This is especially true when using multiple platforms to gather and present information. Successes and challenges are part of life, and achieving goals often requires effort and perseverance.
Personal Challenges and Growth
Over the past few weeks, I’ve encountered several challenges while working on my project to learn and teach Fusion 360. Here are some of the key obstacles I’ve faced:
Understanding Learning Material: While the learning material for Fusion 360 is helpful, I’ve found that I often need to look for additional sources to better understand the concepts. Other sources sometimes explain things more clearly or provide more efficient examples.
Creating How-To Videos: I’m working on creating how-to videos to support other teachers in using Fusion 360. I have a preferred method for creating videos, using apps like Camtasia for its excellent screen recording and editing capabilities. However, I initially planned to use Microsoft Clipchamp for editing and Snip & Sketch for screen capture. This process didn’t work as expected, so I switched to using Clipchamp’s screen recording feature. Unfortunately, the recordings weren’t transferring to the edit screen
Created by Microsoft Copilot
Technical Issues: To top it all off, Fusion 360 needed an update, and my computer froze during the process. After rebooting, I found that my desktop icons were missing. It took three cold reboots and two updates to get everything back to normal.
Created by Microsoft Copilot
Despite these challenges, I’ve grown in patience and resilience. I’m hopeful that in part two of this blog post, I’ll be able to share more about my actual progress in learning and teaching Fusion 360 to staff and students.
The debate over cell phone use in Saskatchewan’s classrooms has been heating up for some time now, and it went to new level especially due to the new provincial measures that was implemented the start of this 2024-25 school year.
This policy aims to reduce distractions and improve student engagement, but opinions are divided among teachers, parents, and students. It is now January 2025 and let’s look back and see if the new policy has made any impact as it was intended to do.
Pros of Allowing Cell Phones in Classrooms
Parents would say that one of the main advantages for allowing cell phones in classrooms is for them to reach their children in case of emergencies, and students can use their phones to coordinate transportation or other logistics. For the record let’s agree to remove this from the list of Pros. If it is an emergency, you don’t want a student to take a call in a classroom setting. It is better for an adult to go to the classroom and remove the student tactfully to keep their situation private. The student then has an adult ready to support them if it is truly and emergency.
As an Ed Tech Facilitator I have found that cell phones can be valuable educational tools. They provide instant access to information, enabling students to conduct research and verify facts quickly. I had EAL Students in the past use their device to help with translation. One example a teacher would present their lesson using a PowerPoint format in Microsoft 365. The teacher was then able to activate the “Present Live” option. When the PowerPoint would be presented it would give a QR CODE on the screen. The EAL Students would simply have to scan the QR Code and set their preferred language. That way while the teacher was speaking during the lesson, their voice would be transcribed into that student first language. Now that we have no cell phone. We must try to access other tools such as iPads. The result is that we don’t have enough hardware to meet the demand.
Cons of Allowing Cell Phones in Classrooms
On the flip side, cell phones can be significant distractions. Many teachers report that students often use their phones for non-educational purposes, such as texting friends or browsing social media, which disrupts the learning environment. As a parent I have a son that would use the cellphone in the classroom when he was in high school and for me, I think it was a distraction. So as a teacher and parent I don’t think it is always a good thing to have in the classroom. Students can’t be given a digital tool and be expected to use it appropriately. It is essential that we teach them prior to the use of the device such as a cell phone.
I was a counsellor in a High School for a lot of years. I remember students that would get hundreds of texts and notifications prior to the school day. I don’t know how that can be done but I saw this with my own eyes. What I saw in those situations were students that would come to school not ready to learn because of the constant barrage of notifications and texts that they were receiving. So, if you want to make an argument about cell phone in schools that is easily made. However, a believe firmly that a discussion regarding cell phone outside of educational environments should equally be made. The developmental implications on children and youth are profound due to digital connectivity.
Parents are more divided. While many appreciate the safety and communication benefits, they also recognize the potential for distraction and misuse. I am going out on a limb here, but I would say that parents are so busy that they want the teacher’s simply to deal with the cell phone issue at school. Students, on the other hand, often feel that having their phones is essential for staying connected and managing their daily lives. In our discussion last week, it was discussed how different generations have different perspectives on how technology should be used. For example, the graduate students surveyed had different response they leaned towards more productivity software vs undergraduate students. The undergrads saw technology more of a connectivity issue.
Balancing Technology and Education
The challenge lies in finding a balance between leveraging technology for educational purposes and minimizing its potential drawbacks. Some experts suggest that instead of outright bans, schools should develop policies that allow controlled use of cell phones for specific instructional purposes. This approach could help maintain classroom focus while still providing the benefits of modern technology. I think we need to keep in mind the “End Game” pertaining to cell phone use. Eventually, all students will be independent and if we don’t teach them proper use now what will happen if we don’t do anything.
Conclusion
The cell phone debate in Saskatchewan’s schools is far from settled. While the new provincial measures aim to create a more focused learning environment, the opinions of teachers, parents, and students highlight the complexity of the issue. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our approaches to integrating it into education. Finding the right balance will be key to ensuring that students can benefit from the advantages of cell phones without being overwhelmed by their potential distractions.
Sketching: Learn and practice basic sketching tools.
Modeling: Begin exploring simple 3D modeling techniques.
Resources: Highlight useful tutorials and resources.
Resources: Video Resources
Explore the Fusion user interface
How to learn how to draw a 2d shape in Fusion 360 and convert to 3d image.
Observations:
Data Panel gives access to your team’s projects designs, manage design data, and collaborate with others.
What is interesting is that you is you can access samples in the library, upload, save and even 3d print and so much more. Below is a screen shot
The Notification Center and Help menu provide valuable tips and resources. Quick Setup allows for swift configuration of units and navigation settings. One thing I learned was from another video on Fusion that I found on Youtube. It provided a really helpful tip to set your was to set your “Free Orbit” Setting to a “Constrained Orbit” setting. By changing the preference setting it simplifies your view and are able manipulate it a little easier in my opinion.
Profile lets you manage your account and preferences. Tooltips help you understand commands betters, I would also recommend the video link above for it talks specifically on the shortcut keystrokes that provides another way to use the program. Fusion’s workspaces, such as Design, Generative Design, Render, Animation, Simulation, Manufacture, and Drawing, are tailored to specific tasks, making it easier to create and edit models, generate design solutions, create photorealistic images, animations, simulations, toolpaths, and document specifications. As mentioned before this is a robust program and we are focusing on design, generative design and drawing skills for now. This program is like onion, for there are many different layers to it.
The toolbar is organized into tabs and panels, with contextual tabs becoming active based on the command selected. The View Cube and Navigation bar offer intuitive navigation and view control. That said the navigation bar does have a learning curve. I find when you first use the menu bar you have to look at other online sources to identify where to access a specific command. Overall, I am excited to learn Fusion 360 EDU intuitive and to discover the programs capabilities. That said I have to admit I think I took on a pretty extensive challenge.
So just for now my goal is to create a lesson plan for students to build cardboard connectors. They will need to learn how to draw it in a 2d perspective. Then they will need to now how to convert it in a 3d shape.
Additional Future learning activities will be creating cardboard connectors and incorporating angles and then multiple lines (Cartesian Plane).
Final Thought
Manipulating the tools in Fusion 360 is not as easy as using other basic programs such as Tinkercad. It is taking some time to really get good at designing something and making a video that is concise that Teacher’s can use as a future resource.
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.
Social media has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives, influencing how we connect, learn, and share. Reflecting on my journey with social media, I see how it aligns with generational trends, even though I strive to avoid stereotypes. As a member of Generation X, my experiences with social media have evolved significantly over the years.
My social media journey began with Facebook. As a Generation Xer, I was drawn to Facebook for its ability to reconnect with old friends, share life updates, and stay in touch with family. Facebook became a digital scrapbook of sorts, where I could post photos, share milestones, and engage in meaningful conversations. What changed for me is when I became a father. I briefly started posting pictures of my children on Facebook. Not exceptionally long after I realized that it may not be a good idea. For some reason I was concerned about my children’s privacy, and they were not yet given a say. So, this impacted my use of social media as an editor and producer to a viewer.
Professional Networking: LinkedIn
As my career progressed, LinkedIn emerged as an essential platform for professional networking. It allowed me to connect with colleagues, highlight my skills, and explore new career opportunities. LinkedIn became a valuable tool for building my professional brand and staying updated on industry trends. In my later career I have found less of a need for networking. Also, I am now thinking about my own privacy. What information do I want to have online? For that reason, I now network more through use of other platforms such Microsoft Teams and Zoom Meetings. I also participate on platforms that are for certain groups like the Edsby Enthusiasts Portal. The result is that I network at a smaller level with the groups I want to engage with. I do not just put things out to the world.
Learning and DIY: YouTube
YouTube has been a momentous change for me, especially when it comes to home repair and construction tutorials. The platform’s vast library of instructional videos has empowered me to tackle various DIY projects with confidence. From fixing a leaky faucet to siding a house, YouTube has been my go-to resource for practical knowledge. I even use it in my work. I am always looking for solutions and searching for innovative ideas. Again, I know that I am dating myself, but hard habits are hard to break when they serve a positive purpose.
Graduate Studies and Twitter
In recent years, as I embarked on graduate studies, I found myself using Twitter (now known as X) more frequently. Twitter became a platform for academic engagement, where I could follow thought leaders, participate in discussions, and stay informed about the latest research and trends in my field. Since it changed to X, I have stopped using it because I do not want to pay for the service.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The pandemic of 2020 had a profound impact on my relationship with social media. With an influx of information and opinions flooding social media platforms, I realized the importance of managing my consumption. Excessive social media use led to increased anxiety, reduced open-mindedness, and a general sense of overwhelm. This experience taught me the value of moderation and mindfulness in my social media habits. I will throughout the year do a digital detoxification. This happens, especially in the summer. That is a time when I put the device down and reconnect and become intune with the environment around me.
A Shift Towards Enterprise Platforms
Since the pandemic, I have become more selective about the platforms I use. I now prefer platforms under the enterprise banner, such as Google and Microsoft, for their focus on productivity and professional communication. These platforms offer a more controlled and secure environment for sharing and collaboration. Working in the school division we have worked on 3rd party online usage guidelines for the school division. That experience has taught me that nothing is free. If you buy an app then the app is the product. If you do not buy the app then YOU are the product. That is a huge mindset change for me.
Navigating Social Media with Caution
Building from my last point about the growing expectations from employers regarding social media use. I have become more cautious about how I consume and share content. It is essential to be mindful of the messages we put out and the impact they can have on our personal and professional lives. By monitoring my social media activity and being intentional about my online presence, I strive to maintain a healthy and balanced relationship with social media.
My journey with social media reflects the broader trends of Generation X and my professional life. While highlighting the unique ways these platforms have shaped my life. From reconnecting with friends on Facebook to learning new skills on YouTube, each platform has played a significant role in my digital experience. As I continue to navigate the ever-evolving social media landscape, I remain mindful of the impact it has on my well-being and professional life.
When it comes to the face pace change world of social media, I have taken the approach “slow and steady always wins the race.”
