In the past two weeks, the Illinois MakerLab held its first online summer camps featuring Adventures in 3D Modeling and Design with Tinkercad and SketchUp. Due to the current circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, the summer camps were adjusted to be taught through Zoom in order to still give students the opportunity to continue their participation in these 3D Modeling and Design camps.

Despite some may finding 3D Modeling as complex, students ages 9 years and up tackled many challenges and successfully built a variety of designs. From building a pencil stand to a rocket, learning the basics and building some complex models has given them the tools to build whatever may come to mind.

It was important that at the end of the camp, the students would be comfortable showcasing their skills when given the freedom to build a 3D model of their choosing. When the students were asked about the most interesting thing they’ve learned, many pointed out certain tools found in the programs but also creating some fascinating models. 

The camp may have ended for these students but after the 4 workshops provided in each session, they are now certified digital makers and will be receiving the prints of their 3D models.

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