Friday, November 9, 2012

Google Sketchup - Building School Pride and a New Courtyard

Today in Virtual Reality, my students embarked on a real life application involving Google Sketchup.  Google Sketchup is a 3-d modeling program.  In the past, my students have created homes, designed rooms, and even abstract geometric patterns.  Students often rate this application as one of their top two favorites in Virtual Reality.

A few weeks ago, one of the guidance counselors approached me about having the Virtual Reality redesign a space outside of the cafeteria so that it is more inviting to students.  This area will become a new courtyard.  This morning, my brave Virtual Reality journeyed outside in the chilly weather to observe the space and get an idea of the dimensions of the area and the layout of the land.  I encouraged them to design their legacy.  My students willingness embraced this challenge and spend a tremendous amount of time exploring the space and considering various components to involve in their design.  Perhaps more importantly, students were taking a huge sense of pride in what they were doing and fully committed to doing a great job.

The administration is willing to support the project and move forward.  Obviously, funding may be an issue as well.  However, it was well worth it to see the students use what they have learned in class, apply it to real life, and get excited about what they were doing.  Even I began to look at the space differently and consider ways that we could better utilize the space and make it a focal point on campus.  It will take the students a considerable amount of time to finalize their designs since they are so eager and excited.  I know that the work is just beginning and the project will take some time to complete.  I am encouraged to see the students actively involved in this and can't wait to see how their projects turn out.

2 comments:

  1. That is so awesome. It is just what we need to unify and excite the students!

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    1. Thanks - the project is well underway and should be completed soon. I can't wait to share the results.

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