# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Virtual Reality in Construction: How VR is Transforming the Future of Construction Projects

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Virtual Reality (VR) Simulation of an earthquake scenario in school

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Virtual Reality - CSQ Construction Pathways

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Immersive Learning Experiences: How VR Transforms Education

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Download and print this word search puzzle or play online.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Google Drive: Online Storage for Business | Google Workspace

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use Google Drive for secure business and enterprise online storage. Get unlimited Drive as part of Google Workspace to store, access, and share files.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Many schools are grappling with developing the ICT skills of their staff as well as implementing the Digital Technologies curriculum.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We develop resources and advice for parents, carers and educators, children and young people to prevent online child sexual exploitation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
eSafety can help Australians experiencing online bullying or abuse to take action or make a complaint. Discover how we can help you stay safe online

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Contact the Cybersafety and Reputation Management Team

For more information about cybersafety resources or for assistance with issues relating to online behaviour, contact the team by email cybersafety@qed.qld.gov.au.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Stay safe online with info, resources and advice for students and parents.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Bring Tinkercad Into Your Classroom - Tinkercad

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bring learning to life for every grade and every subject with Tinkercad.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Kahoot! | Learning games | Make learning awesome!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that brings engagement and fun to 1+ billion players every year at school, at work, and at home.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Metaverse for Education - 5 Ways to use Virtual Reality in School -

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tinkercad | From mind to design in minutes

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Tinkercad is a free, easy-to-use app for 3D design, electronics, and coding.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
8 Reasons to Learn 3D Modeling & Design for Kids on TINKERCAD

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Here you can find convincing reasons why 3D modeling & design for kids is a good choice and why TinkerCAD is their best option.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Why not START your training WITH US

The most comprehensive safety training platform used in Australian schools

OnGuard Safety is recognised as a market leader in the provision of Work Health and Safety resources, online student training, school workshop auditing and teacher currency training.

What do we do?

We provide industry best-practice online machine safety training resources, and a comprehensive learning management system.

Who uses our resources?

Technology education teachers across Australia use us to instruct their students in correct machine operating procedures.

Why should you use us?

We understand the specific safety training demands required when delivering technology courses to students in secondary schools.

Why trust our Staff?

Our Team have over 100+ years teaching experience. We will deliver industry quality resources to meet your needs.

Services we are proud to provide

OnGuard Safety is recognised as a market leader in the provision of Work Health and Safety online training, school workshop auditing and teacher currency training. We have continued to develop industry best practice, reaching significant levels of shared learning which has allowed for the continued development of our comprehensive online OnGuard LMS.

Our Learning Management System includes online training instruction, knowledge testing, training registers, machine safety demonstration registers, proficiency assessment registers, machine inspection registers, machine maintenance registers and our QR Code enabled Mobile Web.

Consulting

The Team at OnGuard Safety are all experienced technology teachers with a wealth of knowledge gained from over 100 years of cumulative experience and practice in Australian secondary schools. Give us a call if you require assistance with your next building program, floorplan design, machine placement or even ensuring your machine safety zones and switch gear are compliant.

Workshop Auditing

Our experienced Auditor is qualified to conduct technology workshop, hospitality kitchen and STEM workspace room audits. Even if you only have one workshop or perhaps multiple workshops in an elaborate technology education centre, we can develop a competitive quote to suit your school's compliance and auditing needs. Integral to this process, on completion we supply a comprehensive Audit Report.

Teacher Currency Training

To assist with the upskilling of your technology staff, OnGuard Safety is able to organise onsite training. You will have the peace of mind that they have been trained face to face, on the safe use of the machines in your STEM facility. It is ideally suited for beginning teachers, re-trainees and teaching assistants - all with the self-assurance that our trainers are highly qualified, experienced education industry professionals.

Safety training units we offer

out in front... ahead of the rest... setting the pace ...

Typically the safety resources provided for each training unit include:
An online Safe Operating Procedure
Online Knowledge Test (self-marking)
PDF Tutorial Worksheet
A4 Wall SOP Poster
Risk Assessment
Safety Zone Diagram
Recommended Student Use Authorisation (State specific)
Machine Inspection Checklist - (Add-on Plug-in)
Machine Maintenance Register - (Add-on Plug-in)

If our training units do not suit your requirements, let's have a discussion about how we can try to adapt to your particular needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Why not START your training WITH US OnGuard Safety is recognised as a market leader in the provision of Work Health and Safety resources, online student training, school workshop auditing and teacher currency training. What do we do? We provide industry best-practice online machine safety training resources, and a comprehensive learning management system.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The right video for any lesson

Get time back into your teaching day. ClickView makes it easy to find relevant, curriculum-aligned videos.

Capture your students' curiosity

Use video the way you want. We make it easy to incorporate video into your teaching.

Create clips

Just the good bits

Interactive display mode

Designed for the classroom

1:1 devices

ClickView works where you do

Video recording

Share your own videos

understand

Insights that make a difference

Take the guesswork out of teaching. ClickView brings you simple, actionable insights you can actually use.

Support you can rely on

We're with you. Every step of the way.

Seamless integrations

ClickView works where you do

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
ClickView | Educational Videos for Teaching & Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
ClickView makes it easy to find short, relevant videos to deliver engaging lessons. Used by 6,000 schools. Sign up for free and try in your classroom today.

# data[].attributes.body
I've found this to be a handy resource for my students and my own children!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Don't Waste Your Breath: An Introduction to the Mysterious World of the Adolescent Brain

Adolescents are a mystery to many adults - especially their parents. This presentation provides a wry and possibly even helpful overview of the way adolescents think. Based on a synthesis of recent research on early adolescence and mind development, implications for schools and families will be discussed. (Research Paper)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Adolescents are a mystery to many adults - especially their parents. This presentation provides a wry and possibly even helpful overview of the way adolescents think. Based on a synthesis of recent research on early adolescence and mind development, implications for schools and families will be discussed. (Research Paper)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Edcafe AI - Brew Teaching Materials with AI

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Edcafe AI is a powerful AI toolkit designed for educators to effortlessly generate and organize high-quality instructional and learning content.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Chalkie - AI Lesson Generator For Teachers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Chalkie is a tool for teachers to create lessons faster than ever before. Create, edit and share slideshows in seconds using AI.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The seven tactics of the SCAMPER model

The notion of substitution is about asking what elements of a product or process can be replaced without diminishing its value - in fact, ideally enhancing it. Try asking...

Combining involves merging elements of two or more products or processes to create something new or to enhance functionality. Consider...

Adaptation asks us to consider how elements of one product or process can be adjusted or repurposed to serve another function. Think about...

Modification encourages tweaking elements to improve a product or process, focusing on change in form, shape, or attributes. Mull over questions like...

This element involves thinking about how a product or process could be repurposed or used in a context for which it wasn't originally intended. Start asking...

In what unconventional ways can our product, service, or process be used, and how can we promote these alternative uses?

Can the 'negatives' associated with our offering, such as waiting time or wasted use of materials, be put to some positive use elsewhere?

Can we identify secondary or tertiary uses for our product or service that add unexpected value?

Elimination focuses on simplifying by removing unnecessary or less effective elements - or even elements that might SEEM important. Investigate...

This principle suggests looking at the opposite of what you currently do, or rearranging components to see if a better solution emerges. Flip the script by discussing...

SCAMPER model examples

Curious how the SCAMPER creativity model in practice? This table shows how each of the seven factors might inspire a path forward for five different innovation challenges.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
SCAMPER model of creativity, explained | An easy innovation framework for business [GUIDE] - BiteSize Learning

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find creative solutions to innovation challenges with the SCAMPER model. Learn how to apply the seven SCAMPER factors: Substitute, Combine, Adapt, Modify, Put to a new use, Eliminate and Reverse.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
55K views · 1.2K reactions | 📍 Ollera Creek Bridge, North Queensland Personnel from the 3rd Brigade teamed up with Queensland authorities and emergency services to build a medium girder bridge over Ollera Creek. The temporary bridge has allowed the transport of vital supplies and equipment along the Bruce Highway to support flood-affected communities. #YourADF | Defence Australia | Facebook

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
📍 Ollera Creek Bridge, North Queensland Personnel from the 3rd Brigade teamed up with Queensland authorities and emergency services to build a medium girder bridge over Ollera Creek. The temporary…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What Makes Bridges So Strong? | Engineering for Kids | STEAM | SciShow Kids

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Young Engineers: Triangle Truss Bridge - Simple and Strong Engineering Project for Kids

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Producing the world's first 3D-printed bridge with robots "is just the beginning" - Joris Laarman

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Proven mission-critical support

Whether your mission is strategic or humanitarian, Acrow supports on many fronts. Using minimal equipment, our modular prefabricated steel components are easily assembled on-site. Engineered for heavy loads up to Military Load Class (MLC) 120T / 150W, our bridging solutions support both wet and dry gap applications. With training programs and comprehensive service tailored to your operational objectives, Acrow helps you rapidly deploy quality bridge infrastructure across the globe.

William Killeen, Acrow CEO

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Acrow | Military Prefabricated Steel and Modular Bridge Solutions

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Acrow specialize in the design and manufacture of prefabricated modular military bridges for strategic or humanitarian missions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
What is the SAMR Model and what does it look like in schools?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bridge Design and Simulation: Hello everyone! In this Instructable, I will guide you on how to build and simulate a bridge using the West Point Bridge Designer Program. The great thing about this program is that it gives the cost of materials so that you can aim to build the mos…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Bridge Designer | Website for the Bridge Designer--a free educational software package

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Your kids will love learning with our math and reading games. Have fun and watch their skills grow. Try now for free!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Quizizz | Free Online Quizzes, Lessons, Activities and Homework

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Motivate every student to mastery with easy-to-customize content plus tools for inclusive assessment, instruction, and practice. Engage students with Quizizz today!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Bring learning to life for every grade and every subject with Tinkercad.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use your geography knowledge to figure out the mystery country in as few guesses as possible!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is this resource useful for?

This brilliant Design a Bridge Worksheet would be perfectly used as part of a topic about bridges.

Children can use this teacher-made Design a Bridge Worksheet to plan their designs and the materials they will use in construction.

The resource can encourage children to work in groups, so it would be ideal for use as an introductory bridge-building exercise.

It would also make a wonderful display, alongside the bridges the children build. This has great cross-curricular links to STEM, alongside independent writing skills.

By following the visual instructional prompts provided, children can develop their design skills. The prompts instruct children to design a bridge and label it, while thinking about the materials, where they can write a list of supplies at the bottom.

Why not check out our fab planning resources for UKS2 design and technology here.

How this Design a Bridge Activity Sheet can support D&T lessons

Using drawing design sheets for design and technology lessons helps children develop essential skills for the subject. For example, spatial awareness and attention to detail. They'll learn to manipulate tools for drawing up projects and pay attention to proportions and dimensions.

Children can work on their drawing skills with our How to Draw a Bridge Worksheet. You might want to use this sheet with them first, before moving onto our Design a Bridge Activity Sheet. Children can start to get a feel of what a bridge looks like and its features, before designing one of their own.

Children love building stuff, but it's not always easy to persuade them to actually map out their constructions beforehand, nor to evaluate them afterwards! Children can go through the whole bridge-building process with this fantastic Build a Bridge Worksheet.

Another great resource you can share with them is this Structures Planning Designing and Evaluating a Bridge Booklet. Children are led through the steps of planning, designing and constructing a bridge using simple materials. Children are instructed to put together basic structures and demonstrate techniques for enhancing the strength, rigidity and stability of materials.

How do drawing design sheets help children learn?

Drawing design sheets give opportunities for children to reflect on their designs and evaluate their progress. They can assess what works well and what needs improvement, promoting self-reflection and self-assessment skills.

Design sheets encourage children to think critically and solve problems. As they sketch out their ideas, they'll encounter challenges and obstacles that they must overcome through creative problem-solving.

Sheets like these get children planning and organising their thoughts and ideas. They'll learn how to break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps and think about the sequence of actions needed to achieve those design goals!

The above video may be from a third-party source. We accept no responsibility for any videos from third-party sources. Please let us know if the video is no longer working.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This brilliant Design a Bridge Worksheet would be perfectly used as part of a topic about bridges. Children can use this teacher-made Design a Bridge Worksheet to plan their designs and the materials they will use in construction. The resource can encourage children to work in groups, so it would be ideal for use as an introductory bridge-building exercise.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Why Bridges?

Connection is the foundation for opportunity.

Bridges create connection.

Almost a billion people around the world don't have safe transportation access to critical resources like health care, education, or employment due to an impassable river. With a single innovation, we are able to impact households across multiple dimensions.

What is a Trail Bridge?

A trail bridge serves rural communities that most commonly travel by foot, bicycle, or small vehicles like motorcycles and bajaj.

Cost-effect, durable, and safe

Easy to build, maintain, and replicate

Rarely integrated into rural infrastructure network planning and investment, despite a high ROI

Leverage locally-sourced and repurposed materials

49%

Return on Investment Annually

Simple Intervention.

Endless Opportunities.

Safe access is critical to the success of nearly every other development intervention. You can't have poverty alleviation, livelihoods, well-being, and prosperity without first addressing access.

Economists from Yale University and Arizona State University have calculated the potential economic impacts of trail bridges as represented by an annual return on investment:

Rwanda - 158%

Uganda - 116%

Considering these estimates, B2P bridges constructed in East Africa pay for themselves (no quotes) in terms of economic benefit within the first year following construction.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Connection is the foundation for opportunity. Almost a billion people around the world don't have safe transportation access to critical resources like health care, education, or employment due to an impassable river. With a single innovation, we are able to impact households across multiple dimensions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How 3D Printers Work | How Things Work with Kamri Noel

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Make your own custom map of the World, United States, Europe, and 50+ different maps. Color an editable map and download it for free to use in your project.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Find local businesses, view maps and get driving directions in Google Maps.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Online safety | V9 Australian Curriculum

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Understand this Curriculum connection – Online safety

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Coggle is online software for creating and sharing mindmaps and flowcharts. It works online in your browser: there's nothing to download or install. Log in to start diagramming!

Whether you're taking notes, brainstorming, planning, or doing something awesomely creative, it is super simple to visualise your ideas with Coggle. Share with as many friends or colleagues as you like. Changes you make will show up instantly in their browser, wherever they are in the world

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The clear way to share complex information. Coggle is a collaborative mind-mapping tool that helps you make sense of complex things. Create unlimited mind maps and easily share them with friends and colleagues.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
3D Printer Cloud Management Software - SimplyPrint

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover SimplyPrint - the leading cloud-based management software for 3D printing. Streamline your 3D print processes with our innovative cloud solution. Learn more about how SimplyPrint can transform your 3D printing experience.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Australian Curriculum, Version 9.0 sets the expectations for what all young Australians should be taught, regardless of their background or where they live.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This page describes the rationale, aims, structure, key considerations, key connections and supporting resources for the Technologies learning area.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Industrial Technology and Design (ITD) relates to secondary curriculum delivered across Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary subjects offered in Queensland state schools. Commonly, these subjects incorporate theoretical knowledge with practical application in learning environments that include: computer applications; workshops and practical workspaces; a variety of equipment (both fixed and portable); and a range of materials - typically associated with wood, metal, plastics and their related products and accessories.

Departmental procedures and guidelines

Resources

Legislation and other links

What is the ITD Discussion List?

The Managing Industrial Technology and Design activities in secondary schools - Discussion List has been established to provide a forum to discuss ITD issues. It can be used to share ideas, raise problems, debate issues and seek advice on ITD activities via direct emails to subscribed members.

The ITD Discussion List is administered by the Organisational Safety and Wellbeing Unit within the department.

Discussion on the list is informal in its tone; however, communication must remain appropriate, respectful and supportive.

Advertising on the list is not appropriate. Companies who have 'mistakenly' joined the list with the intention of broadcasting advertisements will have their subscription terminated.

How to join the ITD Discussion List

To Join the ITD discussion list select 'Subscribe or Unsubscribe' from the Options menu on the right-hand side, enter your name and email details and submit.

You will receive an email to acknowledge your subscription and information regarding protocols for the use of the list.

*Please note that you can unsubscribe from this Discussion List at any time. Just use the same link above to unsubscribe.

Access archive messages from the ITD Discussion List

All information posted to the discussion list is archived which allows subscribers to view past messages and responses. As many commonly asked questions have already been discussed please use the 'Search Archives' menu option to see if your question has already been answered.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
industrial technology and design manual arts; itd; managing health and safety; organisational safety and wellbeing unit;

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Industrial technology and design (manual arts)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Industrial Technology and Design (ITD) relates to secondary curriculum delivered across Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary subjects offered in Queensland state schools. Commonly, these subjects incorporate theoretical knowledge with practical application in learning environments that include: computer applications; workshops and practical workspaces; a variety of equipment (both fixed and portable); and a range of materials - typically associated with wood, metal, plastics and their related products and accessories.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
"How do you develop your teacher voice?" This was the question a newbie high school teacher, who describes herself as naturally soft spoken and polite, asked recently in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook. "Administrators have told me my voice is too weak," she says, "and that it prevents credibility and has led to my classroom management struggles."

Her question brings up a couple of different points: Is her voice not being heard? Or is it more about classroom presence? The short answer is both. Many teachers responded and confirmed that having a strong and authoritative voice goes a long way toward managing a classroom. But the "teacher voice" to which our soft-spoken friend referred is about so much more-tone, intention, body language, confidence, and more. And all of those things add up to classroom presence.

Although it often takes years to develop, here are some of the lessons our HELPLINE teachers have learned along the way.

It's not about yelling.

"Yelling is always loud and is an act of desperation to get others to listen to you," says C.W. You don't need to yell at kids like a drill sergeant or resort to a shrill tone. In fact, it doesn't take long for kids to learn to tune out teachers who are known as yellers.

What it's really all about is confidence. "If you know you are in charge and you tell yourself the students will listen to you, you will speak with the confidence that makes others listen." C.S. puts it this way: "Give off the vibe that you mean business," she says. H.B. agrees, "Own every inch of your classroom. Fill it up with your presence."

It's not just what you say, it's how you say it.

Many teachers pointed out that teacher voice is more about the words and tone you choose rather than the volume. They advised choosing your words intentionally -at times the fewer the better. Vary your tempo and speak clearly and directly. and being bold and powerful with your delivery.

"Avoid putting the word 'okay' at the end of a statement," says L.M. "Make sure the inflection of your voice goes down when you give instructions, never up as if you're asking a question," adds H.B. And J.S. shared the oldest secret in the book: "I pause for drama, sometimes in the middle of a sentence or word."

Your body language speaks volumes.

A.C. uses her posture to convey that she is in charge. "I suggest a good power pose," she says. "Direct eye contact, standing tall, with chin up, and shoulders back." H.B. shares a valuable tip she learned from a TED Talk: making herself appear bigger by using body language. "Imagine the way a bear stands on its hind legs," she says, "or an animal fluffs up its fur." For more impactful advice on developing your classroom presence, check out these 6 Brilliant TED Talks to Improve Your Speaking Voice

Use proximity to your advantage.

Talking across the room rarely works, especially for students who are well versed in avoiding eye contact and "not hearing" the directions. Walk over and stand right next to the talker/disrupter and speak directly to them in a quiet voice. You'll get the message across that when you are speaking to the class, they need to listen like everyone else.

Refuse to talk over students.

So many new teachers allow students to drown them out with their chit chat. It's essential to pause until you have the class' full attention. Establish signals that let your students know that it's time to direct their full attention to you. It may take a while at first, but it's well worth the wait, if only to save yourself from repeating yourself a hundred times. Consider a system of rewards and consequences for listening the first time.

Never underestimate the power of "The Look."

Twin sibling to the Teacher Voice is the Teacher Look. Dead serious, eyebrows raised, pausing for dramatic effect. The look, according to L.H., that says "just try me and see what happens." "Once you master The Look," says A.R. you will have established your domain."

Learn how to project your voice safely.

There is a science behind building a powerful voice. C.M. explains the basic process, "Push air from your diaphragm and not your throat. It will help you project without killing your throat." Many teachers suggested investing in vocal training or seeking help from your school's drama, speech, or choir teacher. Teacher RW highly recommends the book Change Your Voice, Change Your Life by Dr. Morton Cooper. And for more advice, check out 8 Tips for Saving Your Teacher Voice.

If all else fails ...

Many teachers sang the praises of using a personal voice amplifier or microphone headset. "It takes the physical effort out of raising your voice and just gets the students' attention more quickly," offers T.W. Here's one inexpensive model recommended by teacher L.S.
How did you find your teacher voice in the classroom? Come share in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook. For more great advice check out Yelling Doesn't Work With Kids, So What Should You Do Instead?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Develop Classroom Presence (So Your Students Actually Pay Attention)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
"How do you develop your teacher voice?" This was the question a newbie high school teacher, who describes herself as naturally soft spoken and polite, asked recently in our WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook. "Administrators have told me my voice is too weak," she says, "and that it prevents credibility and has led to my classroom management struggles."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You've been in classrooms or presentations with people who had "presence." They walked into the room or on to the stage and they were the centre of attention. People listened to them - they remembered what was said. People followed them afterwards to learn more about whatever they were talking about.

Why? What did they do to get this type of response from participants? And, how can we use these lessons to make students want to engage in their course content and better remember and use what they have learned?

So - what is stage presence?

We may know it when we see it, but how can we define it? "Stage presence refers to the certain charisma and charm that a theatre actor or performer possesses that draws in an audience and commands their full attention," explains Dallas stage school KD Studio. This "star power" or "charisma" isn't something that most of us are taught in graduate school. But when we look at how to focus our students on learning and how to engage them with the material, this idea of "stage presence" can help focus students' attention on what we want them to remember.

Now, I know what you're probably thinking: "The material that I teach is so important that it shouldn't matter how it is presented." And you are partially right. Higher education isn't about "star quality" or " entertainment ". But it is about engaging students with what we want them to learn - and if using a few techniques from outside higher education will help improve student learning, I'm fine with that.

Techniques to enhance presence

If you're in a classroom and will be teaching students face to face, go and sit in the back of the room and take a look at what the front of the classroom looks like. If you're in a large lecture hall, you may be surprised by how far away the students are when they sit back there. It's hard to be the focus of their attention if they can't really see you, or your slides.

If you're teaching online, consider carefully how you and your presentation will look to your students. Many don't have big monitors and may be viewing your lecture on their phone.

1. Think about how your students will hear you

What is the volume that you need to project in order to be heard at the back of the room or through the online medium? You probably need to be louder than you think. Enunciate your words. Don't let the ends of your sentences get softer so that only the first few rows hear what you say. Nothing will lose your students' attention faster than not being able to hear what is being discussed.

2. Think about the visuals

What are you showing? Is it only words on your slides? Will an image better share your point? Students tend to write down the words on the slides (or just print them and not pay attention), but when you show a picture and talk about it, you may gain their focus and attention, which may lead to better learning.

3. Find a 'bright spot' in each class

This is something that you will look forward to discussing or showing. You don't even need to tell your students what your "bright spot" is for any lecture (or even that you have one). But if there is always something that you're looking forward to sharing, that excitement will be communicated to your students. They'll know.

4. Care about your students and their learning

And care about what you are teaching. When students can see that you deeply care about what you are teaching, they may find a way to care more about it, too. Why is it important? Why do they need to know that particular theory? If you can't answer that, you probably don't care much about it, either. By showing your students that you care about what they are learning and that they are learning, you are making them realise they are important to you, even in the aggregate. That will make them better engage with your class.

5. Don't be afraid to use 'showmanship'

As The Musician's Way author Gerald Klickstein says : "Showmanship (or show-womanship) entails projecting our love of music and our desire to commune with listeners. It doesn't equate with flamboyance. Whenever we're on stage, whether we're performing for the public or an audition panel, our demeanour, gestures and speech should broadcast an invitation that says: 'Let's share something magical!'"

Teaching is magical - and when our students can see that, they will engage with you and with the course content.

Engaging our students doesn't mean that we have to become entertainers or that we have to make things easy. What we do have to do is to show how important what we're teaching is to us and that we're passionate about it. When we care about what we're teaching and we care that students learn, we can embrace new ways to bring content into the classroom. We can use discussions, case studies, group work and more to find the best way to connect with students so that they care about what is taught as much as we do.

Catherine M. Wehlburg is provost and vice-president for academic affairs at Athens State University.
If you would like advice and insight from academics and university staff delivered direct to your inbox each week, sign up for the Campus newsletter.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Build your teaching presence to better engage students

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A strong 'presence' in the classroom can help imbue students with a passion for your subject and willingness to learn. Catherine Wehlburg explores simple ways to enhance teaching presence

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Encouraging the use of 3D Printers and other technology in the Classroom by sharing examples and good practise - from a classroom of wonderful junior school students in New Zealand.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Introduction: Roll Top Pencil Case

A while ago I saw an instructable about a beautiful roll top jewelry box, and I immediately fell in love with the concept. The woodworking skills were way out of my league, but the idea stuck. Then, a couple of months ago I bought my laser cutter, and suddenly this dream of mine became a reality. I decided it's time to go back to the roll-top concept and make a roll top pencil box.

In this instructable I'll show you how to make your own roll top pencil case. I think that the roll top pencil case I made turned out really nice - it has a one-of-a-kind look, and most importantly, opening and closing the rolling shutter makes the most satisfying sound (hear for yourself below!!).

There are 2 parts to this instructable:

1. Designing the box using an awesome online tool I bumped into.

2. Assembly of the box, which is kind of like a fun puzzle.

All files are included for free. Just cut and assemble!

You can have your own roll top pencil case today.

1 Person Made This Project!

Recommendations

Back to School: Student Design Challenge

Halloween Contest

Teach With Tinkercad Contest

Supplies

Materials:

A thin plate of wood (320mm x 300mm / 12.5 " x 11.8"). I used 3.5mm plywood, and I made sure to include files to a 3mm version as well (see the step 2 if you want to modify the design).

Wood glue.

Wax or oil to make the roll top slide easier.

Tools:

A laser cutter. Sorry if you don't have one and can't follow along! (laser-cutters cost about 600$ these days so maybe you can get one sometime? sorry!!).

Optional - a rubber hammer.

Step 1: Video Version

For those who want to see a narrated video version the project, feel free to watch the one I made. That's also the only way you can hear the sound the rolling shutter makes when you open and close it (other than making your own version of course!). Ahhh.... I love it :)

By the way, if you want to support my projects (for free!) subscribing to my new YouTube channel is the best way to do that! :) Thank you so much!

Step 2: Design

Designing 3D objects for laser cutting is pretty hard, especially when there are moving parts and lots of different geometries. I was almost done designing my roll-top pencil case using my favorite CAD software when I ran into a software called Boxes.py. I loved it so much, I just had to share it with you. It turned out way better than my initial model.

Basically, the authors of the boxes.py software realized that many people are making almost identical designs, starting from scratch every time. So, break the cycle, they wrote a python code that lets you start with a basic design and modify it's dimensions and change almost every aspect of it, without actually modeling or drawing anything. They wrote functions mostly for boxes, but other things are available as well. You can join in and write your own contribution if you like.

Once you pick a basic design, you're sent to a different page where you can change many aspects of the design settings. I was designing something similar to a design they call the 'Shutter Box', and so I started with that design (see 2nd image). I measured a few pens and pencils and set the dimensions of the box accordingly. I wanted the box to have two rounded edges and not just one, which is conveniently done with one click. Once I finished setting up the design I wanted, I moved on to the material settings. I used 3.5mm plywood, and you can modify the thickness if you want. Finally, you can compensate for the kerf of your laser cutter (kerf is the part that's removed when material is cut, it should be pretty close to the dimensions of your laser-beam).

Notice that this is just a tool, you have to make sure you feed it with the right inputs and make sure its output is what you expected. For example, I noticed that some holes were missing with my settings, so I had to change the finger-joint settings to make everything work.

Once you're done you can export the results to one of many available formats, or save the design as a URL for others to modify and enjoy. Here's a link to my design in case you want to use it.

Step 3: Cut the Parts

I attached files for two versions of the pencil case, the 3.5mm I made and a 3mm version which might be more useful. I added DXF, AI and SVG files, so pick whatever you like :)

Place a piece of wood on your laser-cutter and cut it out.

For xTool D1 users (10W) - I cut my 3.5mm plywood with 100% power @ 5mm/sec, 2 passes.

Step 4: Lay Out the Pieces

Boxes.py do not supply assembly instructions. It's kind of like a puzzle. To get started, lay everything on a table and make sure you have all the pieces (see the image with the same numbering system):

1. One rolling shutter and its handle.

2. Two side faces.

3. A large bottom face and a smaller inner face.

4. The front and back faces.

5. Two copies of the triplet of short segments.

6. Two copies of each kind of the thin arcs (one slightly smaller than the other).

7. Four copies of the curved inner corners.

Now that we have everything laid out and a common language, let's get to work and assemble the pencil case!

Step 5: Assemble the Inner Chamber

Grab one of the side faces (part #2 in the list above).

Insert the inner face (part #3, smaller part) and the 6 short segments (part # 5) into place. Notice that the short segments are ordered - each segment of the triplet is different. The one with the flat edge should be the outer-most part, and the one with the shallow finger joints should face the inner face (see first and 2nd images).

If you set up the right kerf value, you may need to use a rubber hammer to insert the pieces. Try not to break anything, it should be too hard to squeeze the parts into place.

Attach the unused side face (3rd image).

Attach the front and back faces (#4 in th list, see 4th & 5th images in this step).

Your pencil case should start looking like one! The inner chamber is ready.

Step 6: Glue the Rounded Inner Corners

The sliding shutter needs to be guided. We need to make rails for it to go around the inner chamber. It's going to slide underneath the inner chamber, between it and the bottom face (item #3, the larger one). To guide the rolling shutter, we need to turn corners into rounded corners, and for that we have item #7 in our list - 4 little curved corners.

Give the 4 rounded corners (item #7) a gentle sanding using a fine sanding paper.

Apply wood glue to one of the part's faces (1st image).

Flip the semi-build pencil case so that its bottom is facing up.

Attach the rounded corners to side faces (see 2nd and 3rd images).

Apply some extra glue to the bottom part of the rounded corners. This part will soon be glued to the bottom face of the pencil case (next step).

Step 7: Attach the Bottom

Attach the bottom face of the pencil case (item #3 on the list, the larger one, see 1st image in this step).

Make sure everything is flush and in perfect position (2nd image).

Use a thin rod or a screwdriver to make sure the rounded corners are in place. They should be attach to the corner where the side faces meet with the bottom face (3rd image).

Step 8: Prepare the Shutter

For this step you'll need the items numbered as "1" in the part list (the shutter and its handle).

Squeeze the handle into place. If it's a bit loose, add some glue.

Sand the edges and corners of the shutter.

Oil or wax the edges. I used oil for my boxes, but wax would have probably been better.

Step 9: Make Rails for the Shutter

For this part we will need the 4 thin arcs (#6 in the item list), basically the only unused parts we have left. You should have two smaller arcs and two larger arcs.

Apply glue small to arcs, and attach them to the pencil box so that they form a closed loop with the inner chamber (see 1st & 2nd images).Clean the excess glue and let the glue dry.

Apply oil or wax to the upper side of the small arcs (3rd image).

Insert shutter into its rail. Hold the shutter down so you can glue the larger arcs in place. You can put some weight to do this for you.

Apply glue to the larger arcs and glue them in place. They should form a closed loop with the external part of the pencil box (see images 5 & 6).

Put some weight on the shutter to hold it down. Clean the excess glue and let it dry (7th image).

Step 10: Enjoy!

That's it! if you followed along, you should have your own pencil case at this point! I have one of my own, and I also filled one with some nice pencils and pens gave it as a gift - the feedback was fantastic! People couldn't stop playing with the shutter. The flexible wooden top is just so pleasant to play with, and the sound it makes is just awesome.

Thanks for reading along! I hope you enjoyed my instructable and found it useful or inspiring in any way. If you have any comments or thoughts I'd love to hear them! I try to respond to all of them.

If you like my instructable and want to see more, you're welcome

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Roll Top Pencil Case: A while ago I saw an instructable about a beautiful roll top jewelry box, and I immediately fell in love with the concept. The woodworking skills were way out of my league, but the idea stuck. Then, a couple of months ago I bought my laser cutter, a...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to make speakers for your smartphone - Australian Wood Review

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Turn up the volume with these simple to make, low tech phone speakers.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Passive Wooden IPhone Speaker: Sorry for yet another one of these. I know there are a number of other passive iPhone speaker Instructables but here’s my version. I wanted to make one that would look good enough to sit on my desk.
It’s a fairly simple build, looks beautiful and wo…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
RONALD REAGAN MS TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING EDUCATION

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Problem Statement: Tablets and smart phones are great for storing and playing your favorite music, but the built-in speakers are terrible. It’s not their fault really, since they sound…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Lasercut phone passive speaker | Autodesk Community Gallery

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Come and see dtresinari’s Project on the Autodesk Community Gallery

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to make speakers for your smartphone - Australian Wood Review

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Turn up the volume with these simple to make, low tech phone speakers.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Woodworking with Artisans And Arthropods

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Make a Wood Phone Speaker Amplifier - Full Build

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Making A Passive Wooden Speaker for a Smartphone // Woodworking Project