2025-09-15 3D Modelling Lecture

Brian organized students into groups for upcoming presentations and discussed the scheduling, grading criteria, and requirements for the presentation assignments. The meeting covered specific topic assignments including software comparison and 3D printing in architectural schools, with detailed guidance provided on research methodology and presentation focus areas. Brian reviewed the class timeline and checkpoint requirements, emphasizing the importance of following the schedule and staying on track with major project deadlines.

Next steps

• Students who haven't registered: Register for the class website immediately.

• Students not assigned to a group: Join a group immediately as it affects your grade.

• All students: Verify your group assignments on the class website to ensure correct records for grading.

• All groups: Prepare 15-20 minute presentations for your assigned topics.

• Topic 1-2 groups: Prepare for your presentation starting next week.

• Topic 3 group: Prepare a 15-20 minute presentation comparing SketchUp, 3DMAX, and Blender, including pricing, compatibility, industry usage, system requirements, pros and cons, and examples.

• Each group: Designate a representative to ask questions during other groups' presentations.

• All groups: Prepare questions for upcoming presentations to earn the 5% participation grade.

• All students: Review the class recordings available on the website.

• All students: Inform classmates who aren't in groups that they won't receive grades unless they join one.

Summary

Student Presentation Group Organization Meeting

Brian conducted a meeting to organize students into groups for upcoming presentations. He confirmed that presentations would begin next week and worked to assign students to groups based on their preferences for different topic icons, though the actual topics remained unknown to students. The meeting involved assigning students to groups of four, with some groups already forming around specific topics like VR, 3D printing, and AI, while others remained flexible in their topic selection.

Group Assignments and Presentation Schedule

Brian discussed the need for students to confirm their group assignments on the class website, as incorrect assignments could affect their grades. He announced that starting next week, presentations for topics 3 and 4 will be scheduled on Mondays, with a time limit of 15-20 minutes to accommodate the schedule constraints. Brian also reminded students to verify their group information on the class website, as this would serve as the official record for grading purposes.

Presentation Assignment Guidelines Overview

Brian introduced himself to new students, sharing his background in teaching online and his experience with 3D visuals. He explained the presentation assignment structure, noting it accounts for 20% of the grade with topics revealed in class and a 15-20 minute presentation time limit. Brian clarified that students earn the additional 5% of their presentation grade by attending presentations and asking relevant questions from their groups, with each group member needing to ask one good question per presentation to avoid losing points.

Software Comparison and Preferences Discussion

Brian revealed the next two topics for discussion, with Topic 3 being a comparative analysis between SketchUp, 3DS Max, and Blender. Jenalee confirmed her group's participation and shared her experience with Vectorworks, which she uses at her internship. Brian inquired about the group members' familiarity with the software programs and their preferences, with Jenalee expressing a preference for Vectorworks.

Software Research and Design Programs

Brian led a discussion about software research topics, focusing on architectural design programs including SketchUp, 3DS Max, and Blender. He provided guidance to Topic 3 group members on conducting comprehensive research, emphasizing the need to compare features, pricing, industry usage, and pros/cons of each program. Brian stressed the importance of including practical examples, demonstrations, and local industry perspectives in their presentations rather than relying solely on text-based content.

3D Printing in Architecture Education

Brian discussed rapid prototyping technology, particularly focusing on 3D printing in architectural schools. He shared examples of 3D printed models and explained that rapid prototyping includes technologies beyond just 3D printing, such as laser cutting and CNC machines. Brian instructed the group to focus their presentation on 3D printing specifically within architectural schools, mentioning cost considerations and brand names, while also investigating CSA's Fab Lab development with key contacts Andre Ball and Mr. Bunnick. The discussion included questions about file types used in 3D printing and potential workflows for architecture students using such technology.

3D Printing in Education Discussion

Brian discussed the challenges of accessing 3D printers during his time at CSA and suggested that students could afford them now, recommending they consider purchasing one for the school. He advised focusing on 3D printing as a primary rapid prototyping method due to its accessibility and ease of use. The class schedule was reviewed, outlining that Topic 1 and Topic 2 will present next week, followed by the revelation of Topic 5 and 6, with this pattern continuing for the next three weeks.

Checkpoint Timeline and Project Updates

Brian discussed the importance of following the timeline for Checkpoint 1, which includes schematic design sketches and 2D CAD drawings, due September 20th. He explained that from week 11 onward, classes will focus on assisting students with major projects, with no new topics introduced to allow more time for design work. Brian addressed questions about class participation submissions and clarified that the class website contains all assessment information, including submission buttons for coursework. He emphasized the significance of Checkpoint 3 as a major component of the grade and encouraged students to stay on track with the schedule to maximize their time for the final project.

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