If you do not want to spend class time bringing your students to the Maker Hub, you can still assign a project that leverages the Maker Hub's resources to enhance your students' learning experience. Whether it's utilizing the cutting-edge tools available for fabrication and design or tapping into the peer-to-peer learning offered by our knowledgeable Maker Hub volunteers, your students will benefit from hands-on, collaborative learning. Below you will find example projects that can act as inspiration for your next assignment.
Please email makerhub@georgetown.edu before assigning any Maker Hub projects to discuss timelines, material requirements, and other factors.
Example Projects
Avatar Project
Students are tasked with creating a physical representation, or "avatar," based on a keyword that encapsulates their interests. Utilizing the diverse tools and techniques available at the Maker Hub, students can engage in a creative process that can include 3D printing, laser cutting, woodworking, electronics, and/or various craft materials. The end results are wonderfully unique and creative. This assignment is best suited for the beginning of the semester and offers a chance for students to learn about and engage with the Maker Hub early on. (based on a similar assignment from CCTP 5005, Interdisciplinary Problems and Methods, Jeanine Turner)
Alternative Photograph
Students are tasked with creating a tangible print from a digital photograph. They begin by capturing an image using a digital camera, then explore various printing methods available at the Maker Hub, such as laser engraving, block printing, or 3D printing lithophanes. Through hands-on experimentation, students transform their digital images into alternative, physical prints, exploring the interplay between digital and analog mediums. (assigned in ARTS 132 - Photo I: Alternative Processes, Bruce McKaig)
3D Print a Gas Mask Adapter
Students must design and 3D print an adapter for mounting an American-style canister filter onto a Russian-style gas mask. This task involves attending a TinkerCAD workshop led by the Maker Hub manager and then learning how to operate the 3D printers with the assistance of Maker Hub volunteers. It emphasizes practical problem-solving, design skills, and hands-on learning. (assignment from SEST 649 - Hands-On Unconventional Tech, Andrew Herr)
Laser Cut Medallion
Students visit the Maker Hub to design and laser cut a medallion. They first must create their medallion designs using graphic design software, then learn to operate the laser cutter with assistance from Maker Hub volunteers. This assignment focuses on applying design principles in a hands-on project. (assigned each semester in ARTS-1602, Graphic Design I, Negar Nahidian)
Faculty Testimonials
Negar Nahidian | College - Department of Art & Art History
"The Maker Hub is a great space for my intro and advanced graphic design students to explore the many possibilities of turning their design ideas in the digital format and turn them into laser cuts, buttons, embroidery, traditional book making, stickers, etc. The Maker Hub gives the tactile experience that is much needed for students who are used to only working on the screen. Students often love the outcome and end up going back on their own to create more projects."
Kimberly Lubreski | CNDLS - Assistant Director of Learning Design
"The Maker Hub provided an innovative space where my students could immerse themselves in exploration, experimentation, and hands-on learning. With the Maker Hub staff's expert guidance during an insightful orientation, they were equipped with tools and resources to bring their creative ideas to life. They worked together to design and develop and collaborative final project for my JUPS course on immigration."
Andrew Herr | SFS - Center for Security Studies
"Leveraging the Maker Hub is a seamless way to provide students access to 3D printing and other technologies so that these technologies can become a required element of the course. Exposing students to these technologies gives a much deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and it's been a pleasure working with the Maker Hub team!"