The third industrial revolution is upon us, and we have the ability to create functional products on our desktop by using some inexpensive and accessible tools. This course focuses on training on many of these tools and technologies and learning to make things. We will explore 3D scanning, modeling and printing to rapidly prototype products. We will experiment with open hardware /micro-controllers such as arduinos to explore the concept of the internet of things. You will also get experience in other tools for making digitally such as laser/vinyl cutters and desktop CNC’s at the Champaign Urbana Community Fablab. We will also have guest lectures in entrepreneurship, design thinking, digital making and some stories from passionate makers from the community and beyond. This seminar course is being offered by Dr. Vishal Sachdev. This is one of two courses at the Maker lab, the other being Making Things. We are thankful for the support from our partners for sponsoring these courses.
Here is a video for the course, created by students in the first cohort in 2015.
The course embodies the philosophy of the lab, where we Learn, Make and Share. This blog reflects the learning journey by the students, and helps them connect with the larger making community, by sharing their learning.
A video made by Ian Szetho, Class of 2017, documenting the Digital Making 2017 projects is available below.
Reflections from students in earlier semesters are available at
How to Apply: The next session in Spring 2018, will be on Wednesdays 9:00 to 12 pm, in BIF 3030(MakerLab) . If you are an Illinois undergrad student and interested in taking the class, please send your resume to the instructor( Vishal AT illinois DOT edu) , with a short note explaining your interest in the course and any skills/passions in making that you bring to the course. Information System majors in the college of business can us this as an elective. Applications accepted till November 15th and if I get more applications than seats(21) which is likely, I will announce selections on November 16th.