September - Vol 70, No 1 - International Technology and ...

Any good design has plenty of illustrations, artist’s
renderings, top/side/perspective drawings, and assorted
projections of what the physical reality of the design
might look like. Students are free to use hand drawings,
computer-generated images, or sketches to get their ideas
across in an understandable way.
A favorite technique of architects is to use threedimensional
models and diorama-like portrayals to give
their creations a lifelike quality, creating excitement and
affinity for their chosen design points. There is nothing
preventing your students from doing the same thing for
their client company. Have at it and let the construction
paper, foam-board, paints, and assorted accoutrements fly!
Tease out the artist-designer in everyone. Make sure to mix
head and hand learners on each design team.
Would a bench add some “pizzazz” to your rooftop garden design?
When the designs are ready, it becomes time for the big
presentation to the client company and the time to see their
faces light up with awe and surprise at what your students
have designed. I can hear the applause from here!
If you can visualize this highly creative effort happening
right now in your classroom….why wait any longer?
Contact some nearby companies and businesses, and
offer the services of your students to solve problems and
fulfill new design challenges they might be thinking about.
Market your students as consultants and then stand back
and watch the creative ideas fly!
Architects use three-dimensional models to give their creations a
lifelike quality.
Museums are a wonderful place to learn about models and
dioramas. Maybe a quick trip to a local museum would get
your students in the mood to build some 3-D models and
help them develop some ideas for doing the same with the
rooftop garden challenge.
Hobby stores may have the kinds of accoutrements and
accessories your students will need, like miniature plants,
trees, benches, walkways, building materials, and such that
will add “pizzazz” and “snap” to their designs. Don’t be
afraid to experiment and push the envelope. Your students
are trying to get their client company to think and envision
what could be a wonderful new space on their now plain,
old, drab, flat roof.
You might be very pleased at what these local companies
and businesses have to say about your school and its
technology and engineering education program.
Harry T. Roman recently retired from his
engineering job and is the author of a variety
of new technology education books. He can
be reached via email at htroman49@aol.
com.
18 • Technology and Engineering Teacher • September 2010