This progressive, project-based course takes students on a complete journey through the world of 3D design and digital manufacturing. Beginning with beginner-friendly TinkerCAD lessons, students develop foundational CAD skills before advancing into Onshape—a powerful, professional-grade 3D modeling platform. Onshape is free for education and accessed through a web browser such as Chrome/Internet explorer. No download of software is needed.

 

Starting the course using TinkerCAD gives the foundation knowledge of basic 3D modeling before moving on to more challenging modeling software Onshape. By gradually increasing in complexity, this course helps students build confidence and competence in 3D modeling, CAD design, and engineering principles. Students will go from creating simple 3D shapes to designing functional mechanical assemblies, preparing models for 3D printing, and tackling real-world design challenges.

 

What Students Will Learn:

• Basic 3D modeling using TinkerCAD (extrusions, shapes, measurements)

• Model CAD features, such as extrude, revolve, shell and fillet with OnShape

• Sketch, edit and extrude a profile

• Introduction to 3D printing principles and workflow

• Rescale, rotate and move an object ready for slicing

• Exporting STL files and preparing models for slicing/printing

• Applying design thinking through iterative design challenges

 

This course is ideal for middle to high school students interested in STEM, engineering, robotics, product design, or digital fabrication. Suitable for both beginners and those ready to take their 3D design skills to the next level.