Introduction:
DesignLab is an application-driven, interdisciplinary learning space where students bring their ideas to life through 3D modeling, digital fabrication, and physics-based design principles. This module goes beyond teaching students how to use design software and 3D printers —it fosters a deep understanding of engineering, physics, and material science by encouraging students to create, refine, and optimize real-world products.
By integrating spatial reasoning, structural physics, and problem-solving, DesignLab empowers students to explore how objects are designed, built, and improved —bridging concepts from MeasureLab (material properties, forces, thermodynamics) and RoboticsLab (mathematical modeling, computational logic) into a tangible, hands-on experience.
Learning Approach & Design Philosophy:
DesignLab is rooted in inquiry-based learning, where students progress from conceptualizing ideas to fabricating real-world objects while developing an engineering mindset. Rather than simply learning software tools, they engage in problem-solving and iterative design, questioning:
Why do certain structures fail while others hold up?
Why are support structures needed in 3D printing?
How do temperature and environmental factors affect materials?
How can we optimize designs for strength while reducing material waste?
Through a progressive, grade-wise curriculum, students develop the ability to:
Use industry-standard CAD software (TinkerCad → OnShape → OpenSCAD)
Understand physics-based design principles (forces, material properties, thermodynamics)
Solve real-world engineering problems through prototyping and iteration
Create replacement parts & functional designs to enhance everyday objects
Collaborate on large-scale projects, integrating mathematics, programming, and fabrication
Inquiry-Based Exploration & STEM Integration:
DesignLab seamlessly connects engineering, physics, and computational thinking with hands-on making. Key interdisciplinary links include:
MeasureLab Integration: Heat, force distribution, material stability, environmental effects on fabrication.
RoboticsLab Integration: Precision measurement, mathematical reasoning, algorithmic modeling for structural design.
Physics & Engineering Concepts: Strength optimization, structural integrity, thermodynamics, forces in material behavior.
Through guided experimentation, which follows scaffolding principles, and real-world problem-solving, to develop high-order thinking, students cultivate design thinking, making DesignLab a powerful interdisciplinary gateway to engineering, robotics, and applied science.