log to keep track of things during the ima physical-computing class that i’m a g.a. for in spring 2026.
class 1:
- realized that a lot of the times, showing aspirational projects can inspire students — show them the sky, even if their skill cannot reach there. the job of a teacher is to open eyes.
- i think a class needs interim participation from the class.
260217:
it’s interesting to see differences between ima and itp students.
ima students are very instruction-driven — i’ll do what i’m told. some itp students also come that way (especially ones straight from undergrad).
the use of ai is also astounding. somehow, making art is not about the process anymore — it’s a job, a chore — and about the final outcome.
260223:
there is a real-time clock on the arduino. can be used to automate certain tasks (such as send an email every morning or something).
260302 soldering workshop plan:
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why solder?
- preserve a circuit
- make a component usable (headers, components to components)
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tools:
- protoboards
- soldering stations
- wand
- control
- fume extractor
- rubber mat
- wire clippers
- flush cutter
- tweezers
- solid wire
- solder
- solder sucker
- copper wire
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good soldering practices + safety + terms:
- always touch by the handle, never by the tip
- tinning the tip, keeping it clean (look for shiny things)
- how solder flows
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example + activity: solder a throughhole component nicely.
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final activity: solder a circuit