Optional Lesson E

Part 1: Virtual Circuits and Circuit Design using TinkerCAD application

To introduce students to basic electronics concepts and circuit design using Tinkercad Electronics.

1. Computers with Internet access
2. Tinkercad Electronics application (https://www.tinkercad.com/)

1. Begin by explaining the objective of the session: to learn about basic electronics concepts and circuit design virtually using Tinkercad Electronics.
2. Discuss the importance of understanding electronic circuits in the context of maker projects.
   • Integration of Technology: Electronics form the foundation of many modern technologies. Having a solid understanding of electronics allows students to integrate electronic components and systems into their maker projects. This opens up a wide range of possibilities for creating interactive, functional, and innovative prototypes.
   • Building Functional Prototypes: Electronics knowledge enables students to design and build functional prototypes that can sense, process, and respond to various inputs. They can incorporate sensors, actuators, microcontrollers, and other electronic components to create projects that interact with the environment or user.
   • Problem Solving and Innovation: Electronics understanding enhances students’ problem-solving skills and encourages innovative thinking. It enables them to come up with creative solutions by leveraging electronic components and systems. They can design circuits, develop electronic algorithms, and implement unique functionalities to address specific challenges or needs.
   • Real-World Relevance: Electronics knowledge has real-world relevance as it is present in various industries and sectors. Understanding electronics prepares students for future careers in fields such as engineering, robotics, Internet of Things (IoT), automation, and more. It equips them with valuable skills for technological advancements in today’s society.
   • Collaboration and Interdisciplinarity: Electronics is often an interdisciplinary field that requires collaboration with other disciplines, such as mechanical engineering, software development, and design. Understanding electronics allows students to effectively communicate and collaborate with experts in these areas, enabling them to work on multidisciplinary projects and create more comprehensive and integrated solutions.
   • Iterative Design and Rapid Prototyping: Electronics knowledge facilitates rapid prototyping and iterative design processes. Students can quickly test and refine their electronic circuits, make modifications based on feedback, and iterate on their designs. This iterative approach accelerates the development and improvement of their maker projects.
   • Empowering Creativity and Imagination: Electronics understanding empowers students to unleash their creativity and imagination. It gives them the tools and knowledge to transform their ideas into tangible, functional projects. They can experiment with electronic components, explore circuit design, and bring their visions to life.
   • Problem Identification and Analysis: Electronics knowledge helps students identify potential electronic-related problems or limitations in their projects. They can analyze circuit behavior, troubleshoot issues, and make informed decisions to improve the performance, reliability, and safety of their prototypes.

1. Walk students through the Tinkercad Electronics application, highlighting its features and capabilities.
2. Demonstrate how to access components, drag and drop them onto the workspace, and make connections.
3. Show students how to interact with the simulation and observe the behavior of the circuits.

1. Introduce students to common electronic components virtually available in Tinkercad Electronics, such as resistors, LEDs, batteries, and switches.
2. Explain the function and characteristics of each component and how they are represented in the virtual environment.
3. Encourage students to experiment with different components and observe their effects on circuit behavior.

1. Instruct students to design a simple circuit using the components available in Tinkercad Electronics.
2. Guide them in creating a circuit diagram, placing components, and making connections on the virtual breadboard.
3. Emphasize the importance of proper circuit design and understanding component functionality.

1. Encourage students to test their virtual circuits by starting the simulation and observing the behavior.
2. Prompt them to analyze the results and make any necessary adjustments or improvements to their circuit design.
3. Reinforce the iterative nature of circuit design and the importance of testing and refining.