Blog 2- Design Thinking & Sketchup
Updated: Apr 7, 2023
The design process inherently involves the activity of design thinking (Koh et al., 2015). Students gain numerous benefits from developing their design thinking skills. According to Doppelt (2008), Design-based learning allows students to explore and develop cognitive concepts by designing and creating unique and imaginative projects. This approach lets students take charge of their learning process and tailor it to their particular learning styles, preferences, and diverse range of skills (Doppelt et al., 2008). Additionally, real-life applications of knowledge are a more apparent source of motivation for students to learn (Doppelt et al., 2008). Sketchup offers students the opportunity to engage in design-based learning, which has the potential to further enrich their creativity.
http://www.designthinkingforeducators.com/design-thinking/
SketchUp is a sophisticated user-friendly 3D modeling software that allows you to create diverse structures ranging from towering buildings to prototypes for 3D printing by utilizing fundamental shapes and outlines. It is available for a variety of design and drawing uses such as product design, interior design, architecture, and so on. This platform provides a favorable opportunity for students to generate and develop their designs. Sketchup can be used for stage 3 and stage 4 students, since it is an excellent tool to visualise students' creativity also these students have started to learn about 3D spatial structure. Thus, SketchUp will be a helpful design thinking software for students enrolled in courses, namely geography, mathematics, science, and others.
A house made by myself during tutorial using Sketchup
Limitation
First of all, the expenses for acquiring access to all features of this software may be a burden for some schools. Also, Sketchup can be a challenging tool for students to begin with, as they may encounter difficulties in effectively conveying their ideas through this software. If the material is difficult for students to comprehend, their level of engagement may decrease. Moreover, the students' attention might be directed towards the visual appeal of the 3D model rather than its functionality, which could lead to a reduction in their design thinking abilities.
Reference
Doppelt, Y., Mehalik, M. M., Schunn, C. D., Silk, E., & Krysinski, D. (2008). Engagement and Achievements: A Case Study of Design-Based Learning in a Science Context. Journal of Technology Education, 19(2).nm
Koh, J. H. L., Chai, C. S., Wong, B., & Hong, H. Y. (2015). Design thinking for education. Springer. DOI 10.1007/978-981-287-444-3
Hi Yiwen,
I enjoyed reading your post. I agree that real-life applications help motivate students and definitely through SketchUp and I can see this occurring. However, as you have stated students might be more drawn towards aesthetics rather than functionality, I can see this being issues that can arise in the classroom. Would you know any strategies that could be implemented to prevent this? I would love to hear your thoughts.
Regards,
Cindy