Hands-on Learning in the Classroom: Durability by Design
In today’s classrooms, it’s important to not just know how to use technology, but also more about how it’s made. To address this, Intel® Skills for Innovation (SFI) Starter Packs seek to bring real-world problem-solving into the learning experience, and encourage students to explore engineering concepts through hands-on activities. The Durability by Design module challenges students to think critically about device durability by designing, testing, and using rugged laptop features.
Exploring Ruggedized Designs
Laptops in educational settings need to withstand daily wear and tear, making durability a key consideration in device design. This starter pack starts by introducing students to ruggedization techniques strategically adopted into the designs of laptops and cell phones, including:
- Reinforced structures to absorb shocks from falls and prevent breakage
- Durable materials to protect against physical damage
- Innovative features that protect components and ensure reliable performance
Students will probe deeper into these features, learning more about how they keep devices protected even in tough classroom environments.
Hands-on Learning: Designing for Durability
The Durability by Design starter pack then takes students beyond theory, immersing them in the engineering design process. Throughout the module, they will:
- Research and Sketch Durable Features: Students analyze real-world laptop durability and brainstorm ideas for improving device resilience.
- Create a 3D Model in Autodesk Fusion 360: Using industry-standard design software, students construct a 3D model of a ruggedized laptop, integrating durability-focused features.
- Simulate Drop Tests and Optimize Their Designs: Students run virtual durability tests, analyzing how their model withstands impact. They then refine their designs based on test results, mirroring the real-world product development cycle.
Classroom Impact
Through this hands-on approach, students develop essential STEM skills, including:
- Problem-solving: Identifying durability challenges and engineering solutions.
- Critical thinking: Assessing the effectiveness of different ruggedization features.
- Design thinking: Iterating on their laptop models to improve durability.
This starter pack gives students a glimpse into how engineers create technology that lasts, while strengthening their technical and creative skills.
Conclusion
With the Durability by Design starter pack, educators are able to seamlessly integrate engineering-based learning into their curriculum while helping students think like engineers, exploring the real-world challenges of product design and durability.
Ready to bring hands-on learning to your classroom? Discover more Intel SFI Starter Packs and start innovating in the classroom today.
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