This project aims to immerse high school students in the practical application of CAD software, challenging them to design and prototype educational toys that support preschool learning environments. By collaborating with community partners and engaging with young learners, students will explore the intersection of design, technology, and early childhood development. The project emphasizes real-world problem-solving through the creation of functional, aesthetically pleasing products that enhance preschoolers' cognitive and creative skills, fostering students' self-directed learning and reflection throughout the process.

Through this project, students will acquire proficiency in CAD software by developing hands-on skills in digital modeling and prototyping. They will enhance their creative problem-solving abilities while designing functional, aesthetic educational toys tailored to preschoolers' learning needs. Additionally, students will cultivate self-directed learning competencies by actively seeking feedback, reflecting on their design processes, and iterating prototypes based on real-world interactions and assessments.

During this learning experience, students will design and create a series of modular toy sets using CAD software that are 3D-printed and tailored to preschool needs. These final products will consist of colorful and interlocking pieces that preschoolers can use creatively. Each toy set will prioritize safety, ease of use, and educational value, encouraging cognitive skill development and imaginative play. Students will also develop portfolios documenting the evolution of their design process, complete with reflection and analyses of feedback, culminating in insightful presentations at the Preschool Innovation Fair and Design to Learn Expo.

"Start the project with a 'Observation and Inspiration Day.' Students visit a local preschool to observe playtime, interview teachers, and engage with preschoolers to identify potential design problems in existing toys. Following this visit, conduct a brainstorming workshop where students can share their insights, initial ideas, and collaboratively consider solutions for creating innovative and engaging 3D-printed toys that foster creativity and cognitive skills."

Students will host a 'Preschool Innovation Fair,' presenting their 3D-printed educational toys in dynamic, interactive booth displays. Preschoolers, educators, and families will attend to test the toys and provide feedback on their functionality. Additionally, a 'Design to Learn Expo' will take place at the local makerspace, where students will demonstrate their design journey and gather real-time responses from preschoolers, fostering a lively exchange on the toys' educational impact.