What is In-Depth

 

In-Depth is a self-directed project supported by the TALONS program. It is the epitome of the school year for self-directed learning, demonstrating many of the skills that we have gained through the autonomous learner model. In-Depth is an annual 5-month long project that runs from January to May. Learners decide the topic they want to pursue through the project, and they get in contact with a mentor to assist them along the way. In the end, we should have competent knowledge and practice in a chosen skill through self-learning as well as a mentor.

 

My Chosen Subject?

 

I will be learning Rhino 3D Software as my chosen skill. Rhino is an industry-standard 3D modelling software used for architecture, engineering, and industrial design. I will use this skill specifically to turn ideas into physical drafts and prototypes.

 

Why Did I choose this subject?

 

I specifically decided to learn this software because I have always had a deep interest in Design, specifically industrial and architectural design. I have always kept my ideas in either drawing form or simply writing form. The reason I wanted to learn software is that it would support me in future projects and turn ideas into something that could be easily understood by others as well. Thus, I could share my ideas more accurately and efficiently. With the skill of being able to use professional software, I could create better projects, and express them more clearly and efficiently.

 

I also hope this software can bring me more insight into the industry itself. Having an understanding of the laws of design will shape my ideas to better fit reality. Since Rhino is used universally as a tool for both architectural and industrial design, it was a leading choice for me to learn this software.

 

What is my Goal?

 

By the end of this project, I wish to be able to express my ideas in physical form following industry-standard guidelines. With this skill, I should feel flexible in making 3D models in the software and creating my ideas without error or imperfections. Along with this, I also wish to work with my mentor to learn the software and create a final product. The project would consist of designing a product using the software during the process of development. The overall product I am creating would also aim to bring positivity or function/benefit to the community.

 

How am I going to learn this Software?

 

Rhino 3D is a complicated and confusing software to understand. Thus, I will work with my mentor to further enrich the skill aspect of this project. Since I and my mentor will

only be meeting about once every two weeks, I will have to learn this software by myself as well. I will be requesting resources (e.g. book titles, websites, etc.) instead of asking directly for instructions for learning. This way, the learning is more efficient and more could be learned throughout the process. Hopefully, my mentor is also able to give me feedback on my progress, if I missed something, or did something incorrectly, it would be corrected so it does not grow into a larger problem.

 

What I have completed so far

 

First, I made sure that the goal is accomplishable by researching the requirements of the software, the knowledge I will have to have, and if my computer could handle it. Second, I got a hold of the software from my brother and installed it onto my computer, test ran it, and made sure it was usable. Third, I composed a few emails during Christmas break and sent them a day after new years. I did this so I wouldn’t bother anyone with mentorship during their break and rest. I have got to say, I got rejected a few times, but I also gained a lot of information from them, and built some lasting relationships which I can go back to later.

 

What I wish to accomplish next

 

Next, I wish to get a mentor confirmed as soon as possible. I must have solid fundamental support that lets me build my learning. I hope to research a few more possible mentors, understand them and their personality, appreciate their work, and compose an email to them. If I happen to find a possible mentor, I will hop on a video call with them and discuss more their schedule and what times can work for them.

 

Along with this, I wish to also start learning the software myself as soon as possible. This can allow a lot more valuable “mentor time” saved, thus he does not have to explain all the basics to me.

 

Proving my learning

 

I will also be blogging progress reports about my accomplishments along the way. This will include milestones, problems I have encountered, and images of my work. Through time, I will also include messages with mentors and also feedback from my mentor. My blog will be used to keep any valuable information, lessons, and milestones I encountered along the way of my learning.

 

Thank you for taking the time to read! Stay tuned for future blog posts including my progress with this project!