^CLIENT

Citizen Schools

^PROJECT

Product Design

^YEAR

2020

^DURATION

12 months

^TOOLS

Figma
Adobe Xd
Procreate

Fusion 360

The Challenge

In 2020, our plan to build a mobile makerspace was disrupted due to the pandemic, forcing us to rethink how we could make hands-on learning accessible. Many students were intimidated by 3D printing technology, creating a barrier to engagement and skill development. We needed an innovative way to introduce students to 3D printing in a format that was interactive, engaging, and approachable

My Role(s)

Product Management

Oversaw cross-functional collaboration between programmers, modelers, and researchers. Secured funding by presenting the concept to key stakeholders, leading to the establishment of a new makerspace.

User Journey & Experience Design

Developed an intuitive onboarding experience that reduced intimidation and encouraged participation.

Goal

This initiative was designed to make learning 3D printing more accessible and engaging, particularly for students who felt intimidated by the technology. 

Solution and Outcome

Solution: Develop a VR-based 3D printing tutorial to provide an engaging, gamified introduction to the technology.

Outcome: The VR tutorial effectively lowered barriers to entry, increased student confidence, and demonstrated the viability of immersive education, securing funding for a permanent makerspace on campus.

Target Users

Students at Sacramento City College – Especially those new to 3D printing or intimidated by the technology. Student Makerspace Staff – Trained to facilitate VR learning experiences for their peers. Educators & Administrators – Interested in innovative, scalable approaches to hands-on learning.

Key Learnings

• Gamification reduces intimidation – The interactive VR tutorial helped students feel more confident and eager to experiment with 3D printing.
• Virtual experiences can bridge accessibility gaps – VR provided an alternative hands-on experience when in-person access was limited.
• Strategic storytelling secures funding – Effectively communicating our vision through storytelling played a critical role in obtaining financial support for the makerspace.