Department - Author 1
Materials Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Materials Engineering
Date
6-2013
Primary Advisor
Katherine Chen
Abstract/Summary
An interactive materials-based learning kit for K-4 grade levels was refined to effectively be used in outreach and after-school programs. Different safari animals made of different materials are packaged in the kit, along with different activities to explore physical properties. An optimized number and variety of animals and materials were determined. The volume and weight of the Materials Safari learning kit was optimized to meet the user’s needs. One way the product was optimized was reducing the number of animal pieces in the product. Also, two of the testing stations were reduced in size by about fifty percent to fit in the new, sleek packaging design. The packaging of Materials Safari was designed in ArtiosCad and resembled a regular slotted container style with a tuck and tongue made of microflute, also known as E flute. The prototype package was constructed on a Kongsberg cutting table and assembled with hot glue. The volume and weight of the Materials Safari was reduced by fifty-three and thirty-seven percent, respectively. The graphic design, which embodied a safari adventure theme, was designed in Adobe Illustrator. Interactive and educational activities were created and tested to assist with children’s conceptualization of weight, magnetism, and density. A sorting chart, instructional children story book, and questionnaires were developed for the educational activities. The final packaged product will be tested with children who are in K-4 grade levels to further research on child psychology of scientific concepts.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/matesp/91