by Catherine Teegarden Center for Architecture Foundation
(L-R): Communicity; Green House; Personal Shelter
(L-R): Carin Queener; Jasmine Nadal-Chung; Jennifer Smith
The Center for Architecture Foundation (CFAF) welcomed two groups of students to the Center’s computer lab to learn the ins and outs of Google SketchUp. The afternoon class was for fifth- and sixth-graders who learned fundamental concepts in architectural design along with new computer skills. The evening group was for adults with a range of backgrounds, from professional architects to art teachers.
Once introduced to the basic tools in SketchUp by CFAF instructor Carol Gretter, both groups designed personal shelters. Adult participants found the project-based approach particularly helpful as they could practice their new skills in a real-life situation. Both groups also created short animations to walk viewers through their projects, which the kids shared with their parents at the last class.
The Foundation is offering two new SketchUp classes beginning in January. For adults, the eight-week Digital Design with Google SketchUp for Adults class runs Tuesdays, 6-7:30 pm, starting 01.10.12. Full participation in the class also earns 12 AIA CES Learning Units in Health, Safety, and Welfare.
Digital Design: From Books to Buildings will teach 5th-9th graders how to use SketchUp as they create a 3-D digital design for a building or place from a favorite book. Classes meet Tuesdays, 4-5:45 pm, beginning 01.03.12. For more information about either program or to register, click the links above or visit the CFAF website at http://www.cfafoundation.org.