Sketch up is a 3D modelling software is an increasingly popular tool in classrooms and around the world. This software allows students to design and create their own 3D models within the application that can be used for multiple of purposes for eg; in design class, art work etc (SketchUp, 2023). Promoting creativity has just become really easier with SketchUP in the classroom because it allows students to dig into their imagination and bring their ideas to life.
One of the key benefits of SketchUp is that it encourages collaboration among students. Students are able to work together on projects, sharing ideas and building on each other's designs. This fosters a sense of community and teamwork within the classroom, which can lead to better learning outcomes (SketchUp, 2023).
SketchUp also helps students think critically along while promoting problem solving skills. As while working on their designs, they must take various factors into considerations such as scale, proportions and components (Liveri et al., 2012). It is user-friendly as students are easily able to navigate within the application. It can be used across different subjects such as Science, Mathematics, Art and Social Studies (Liveri et al., 2012).
Using Sketchup in the classroom encourages students to visualise and understand complex concepts in a way that is not possible with traditional 2D drawings or diagrams (Liveri et al., 2012). This can help to improve their understanding of spatial relationships, geometry and design principles. It can be used to create virtual environments that stimulates real-world scenarios. This can be done by creating realistic models of buildings and cities where students can explore different design options and test their ideas before committing to a final plan.
Despite its many benefits, Sketchup has some limitations that can hinder learning;
It does not have sufficient space to hold larger files. Sketchup tends to slow down and reboot when working with larger models and importing high resolution textures.
Sketchup lacks the ability to create animations or stimulations. This limits its use in fields such as game development or product design where animations are essential.
References
Liveri, A., Xanthacou, Y., & Kaila, M. (2012). The Google Sketch Up Software as a Tool to Promote Creativity in Education in Greece. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 69, 1110–1117. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2012.12.040
Sketchup For Education | Teaching Sketchup | Sketchup Education Free. (2023). Retrieved March 26, 2023, from https://sketchup-ur-space.com/2014/oct/teaching-with-sketchup-using-3d.html?fbclid=IwAR0skGAXuTcrokRODEJjv0L8W03zwbhsfNQOY_3GQrW3OfkSZF-mkjJ3ogY
Hey William,
Fantastic blog post! Seeing your final design for both sketchup and photoshop was pretty cool. It was also really good to also see how you used sketchup and it helped me gain a better understanding of how to use the tool more effectively, even after using it myself. I definitely agree with the pedagogical concerns you have mentioned however i would also add that showing students how to use sketchup could also be tricky and that using the technology would require more then one lesson and organising your time with the students efficiently. Do you agree?
-Souraya Fadda