Japanese Educators Develop Fun STEM Learning with SOLIDWORKS Apps for Kids

SOLIDWORKS Apps for Kids is a free web-browser creative tool that kids age 4-14 use to design 3D models, decorate, and 3D Print. SOLIDWORKS Apps for Kids Classroom is a special app just for educators to safely develop lessons for their students.

In Japan, Professor Naruse of Fukushima Prefectural Techno Academy Hama, developed a great project to combine Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) learning with history and culture.

“Akabeko”, the red cow, comes from a legend that a cow helped to build the Enzoji Temple in the Aizu region ~807. The cow led the other animals, working tirelessly, until the temple was complete. The grateful people erected statues of the cow in the temple grounds. Akabeko is a symbol of good fortune and health.

Professor Naruse started with geometry basics to develop the body of the cow. Although most students never used a mouse or computer, they quickly grasped the concepts of developing the 3D model.

Then can time to decorate and have fun with color and stickers.

Next came a conversation about manufacturing technology. Professor Naruse introduced the concept of 3D Printing. Every student got to print their own model and take it home as a great souvenir.

But it doesn’t end with this lesson. Students can use SOLIDWORKS Apps for Kids at home on their own to create their own models and have fun.

Thank you Professor Naruse, Asubito Fukushima, my colleague Junko Arai and the SOLIDWORKS Japan team for inspiring the next generation of designers.

Educators! we offer a SOLIDWORKS Apps for Kids Highlight Newsletter so don’t forget to sign up on the SOLIDWORKS Apps for Kids Website. Check out the cool ideas from other teachers.

Design well, Marie

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Marie Planchard

Senior Director, Early Engagement, 3DEXPERIENCE Works at Dassault Systemes

Marie Planchard is an education and engineering advocate. As Senior Director of Education & Early Engagement, SOLIDWORKS, she is responsible for global development of content and social outreach for the 3DEXPERIENCE Works products across all levels of learning including educational institutions, Fab Labs, and entrepreneurship.