Class Description
Step into the world of Technomancery, where technology and creativity merge. In this immersive, hands-on course, students explore artificial intelligence, virtual reality, drone operation, and 3D Printing. Participants will experiment with cutting-edge tools and develop foundational skills in emerging tech, all while imagining the possibilities of the future.
Learning Objectives: in this class, students will learn about
- How to choose and use the appropriate digital tool—Nomad Sculpt, ShapeLab, Tinkercad, OnShape, FreeCAD, LumaLabs AI Genie, or Arduino software—based on the design task at hand;
- How to apply software to create functional or expressive digital prototypes ready for 3D printing, visualization, or physical computing (Weeks 1&2);
- Experimenting with both organic sculpting and CAD-based modeling tools to design and create two custom 3D print-ready objects—one using freeform techniques (e.g., Nomad Sculpt or ShapeLab) and one using precise, parametric modeling (e.g., Tinkercad, FreeCAD or OnShape)—demonstrating an understanding of form, function, and printability (Week 1);
- Exploring how to use AI tools to modify, remix, and combine 3D design elements, then apply these techniques to create and 3D print one complex, customized object that demonstrates thoughtful integration of multiple components or design ideas (Week 2);
- Designing, assembling, and flying a functional mini-drone using Arduino-based components by applying foundational skills in circuitry, soldering (including reflow), and troubleshooting, demonstrating an understanding of how hardware and code work together to enable flight (Week 3);
- The art of the peer critique and give peer critiques on the progress of student work;
- Opportunities and potential resources on career pathways;
- How to distribute, exhibit, and promote artwork for a variety of audiences.
Equipment
- iPads
- PC
- VR headsets
- 3D printers (Bambu Labs, Resin Printer, Ender3)
- Drones
- Pre-ordered circuits & stencils
- Soldering Irons
- Hot plate
Software
- Nomad Sculpt
- ShapeLab
- Tinkercad
- FreeCAD
- OnShape
- LumaLabs AI Genie
- Arduino
Deliverables: Students and Class Projects
- Week 1: By the end of this week, you’ll have two custom 3D-printed objects:
- An Organic Sculpt – A freeform, artistic model made using tools like Nomad Sculpt or ShapeLab
- A CAD-Based Print – A precise, functional design made using Tinkercad, OnShape, or FreeCAD
- Week 2: By the end of this week, you’ll have a complex, 3D-printed design that combines multiple elements or modified parts using the power of AI and 3D design tools to create one customized 3D-printed object that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
- Week 3: By the end of this week, you’ll have built, programmed (using Arduino-compatible components) and flown your own working mini-drone—a real, flying machine powered by your own hands-on skills!