3D Printer
Q: I enjoy learning and staying current in my field but, unfortunately, the stack of articles I planned to read this summer is untouched!
A: If you read all day for your work, you may want to give yourself a break and turn the channel – explore new topics and new ways of learning. For example, I am very interested in the fact that 3-D printing has disrupted the manufacturing process and is allowing individuals to “make (almost) anything.” The digital fabrication movement began in the labs of Neil Gershenfield here in Cambridge, Massachusetts,
Reading books on the subject can be a real snoozer; however, l love watching or listening to TED talks because I am an active learner. I thoroughly enjoyed attending the Fab Fest 11 in Boston where the mayors of Boston and Somerville, Marty Walsh and Joe Curtatone, joined the movement to become sustainable cities by 2040.
Mayor Joe Curtatone accepts challenge
Here are a few questions to consider as you strive to stay current:
- Are your close friends and family continuing to learn? Are they interesting people? If yes, talk to them. If no, expand your network.
- Are you following your curiosity?
- What is your primary channel to learn: Visual? Kinesthetic (hands on)? Listening? Day dreaming—letting your thoughts wonder?
- How can you bring playfulness to staying current? Go to a museum talk; attend Shakespeare on the Commons; sketch or collage your ideas.
Finally, give yourself a break and check the dates on the articles that are stacked on your desk. If the articles are over one year old, do yourself a favor and throw them in the trash. Your goal to stay current begins today.
Note: If I have ignited your curiosity about digital fabrication, follow this link to Shenzhen China, the site for Fab Fest 12.
Neil Gershenfield & Mayors