New Maker Challenges Offer More Ways to Create

The Teaching, Learning and Technology Center (TLTC) is introducing new weekly projects and monthly Maker Challenges this fall, giving students, faculty and staff more opportunities to explore technology and create in the Maker Studio. 

Each week, project-based workshops will introduce participants to a Maker Studio technology through a guided project, while a new Maker Challenge each month will provide an opportunity to apply those skills to a larger creative or technical challenge. No previous Maker Studio experience is required to participate.

Try a New Project Each Week 

The Maker Studio will offer a new project each week using tools and technologies available in the space, including 3D printing, laser engraving, Cricut cutting, sublimation printing, robotics and electronics. Students, faculty and staff can stop by during Maker Studio hours throughout the week to participate.

Two instructional sessions will also be offered each week for participants who would like guided instruction. During these sessions, TLTC staff will walk participants through the project, introduce the featured technology and explain the techniques needed to complete it. There is no cost to attend an instructional session, although some projects may require a small fee for consumable materials.

September projects include: 

• 3D Print a Place, September 14-18: Select a meaningful location on a digital map and turn it into a 3D-printable terrain model while learning how to adjust scale and elevation and prepare a model for printing. 

• Backpack Nametag Using TinkerCAD, September 21-25: Design a personalized backpack nametag by combining text and shapes in TinkerCAD, then size and prepare the finished model for 3D printing. 

• Scan Me! The Smart Networking Card, September 28-October 2: Create a wooden networking card or tag with a laser-engraved QR code that links to a resume or LinkedIn profile while learning about layout, engraving and QR code readability.

New projects will be featured throughout the semester, providing opportunities to work with different Maker Studio technologies and learn how they can be used for future projects. 

Take On the Monthly Maker Challenge 

For those looking to go further, the TLTC is also introducing a new Maker Challenge each month. Each challenge presents a project or problem to solve using technology available in the Maker Studio. 

The September Maker Challenge, Bloom and Build, invites participants to create a 3D-printed floral display using designed or selected flowers with a custom base, vase or holder. Participants will plan their arrangement, prepare components for printing and make decisions about scale, color, stability and assembly as they develop and refine their design. 

More to Explore in the Innovation Hub 

The Maker Challenges are just some of the ways to explore technology in the Innovation Hub. The Seton Hall community can also bring their own projects to the Maker Studio, explore virtual reality in the Exploration Studio or build technology skills through TLTC workshops offered throughout the semester. The Maker Studio and Exploration Studio are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with evening and weekend access available based on staffing. 

For questions about Maker Studio projects, email [email protected]. Faculty can contact their instructional design liaison for help incorporating Innovation Hub technologies into a course or assignment. For specialized projects, collaborations or other Innovation Hub questions, contact Renee Cicchino.

Categories: Science and Technology