Teaching

I am passionate about empowering students to unlock their potential.

Through my teaching approach, I make it fun and inspiring, rather than daunting, to learn to harness the power of technology such as embedded electronics, programming, computer-assisted design (CAD), physical prototyping, and digital fabrication. By combining creativity and engineering, and using a project-based approach to teaching, students become adept at transforming ideas into tangible creations; at breaking down problems and solving them quickly; at become faster, more effective, learners overall. With the ability to tackle the unknown, and to execute on an idea, I enable people to grow and feel empowered.

I have taught hands-on project-based workshops with middle- and high- school students at the award-winning NuVu Studio, The Innovation School, in Cambridge, MA before moving to San Francisco to start the educational artist organization Sustainable Magic. I've taught workshops as part of Sustainable Magic, and also teach private lessons and workshops independently.
I offer one-on-one and small-group lessons based on skill level and interest area, for youth and adults.  

For those interested in large group or corporate workshops, please visit my company's website to learn more: Sustainable Magic. 

Everything can ultimately be customized based on need/interest.

About Private & Small-Group Lessons

LESSON STRUCTURE & TOPICS

Lessons are generally two-hours per session. I recommend that lessons occur at minimum once a week to ensure content stays fresh in mind from session to session.
I've found that creating a project-oriented learning modules with an end-point and final project after 4-8 weeks enhances learning and enjoyment. I recommend we start with a beginning overview/intro to frame things and set the framework for the more in-depth learning modules. Open-ended lessons are available separately.​

LEARNING MODULES

​The Beginning Overview/Intro covers:
  • Software tools and laptop software installation and testing
  • Basics of coding & debugging
  • Breaking projects down​​
​Average duration: 2 lessons
1. Computer Programming (Processing)
2. Building Interactive Robots (with Arduino)
3. Internet Communication / Internet-of-Things
4. 2D Digital Design, Fabrication, & Prototyping
5. 3D Digital Design & Fabrication
Topic areas include:
  • Graphics
  • Interactivity & Inputs
  • Sound
  • Computer vision & blob tracking
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Topic areas include:
  • Hardware / electronics overview
  • Soldering & Electrical connections
  • Robots & Motors
  • Sensors & Inputs
  • LEDs
  • Physical structures 
Topic areas include:
  • Network communication​
  • Web interfaces
  • Bluetooth
  • Data Flow / If-This-Then-That




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Topic areas include:
  • 2D design
  • Laser cutters & vinyl cutters
  • Materials
  • Ways to attach & join things

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Topic areas include:
  • 3D modeling
  • 3D printing / printers
  • Materials









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Example Projects:
  • Interactive Real-Time Art
  • Video Games
  • Sound Visualizations
  • Living Portrait (using face tracking)
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Example Projects:
  • ​Dancing Robots
  • Interactive LED Art
  • Homegrown Power Generator

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Example Projects:
  • Adding network connectivity to prior project
  • Smart / Connected Home
  • Smart Toys​

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Example Projects:
  • LED art piece structure
  • Creating custom physical components/structure for prior project
  • Wearables​
Example Projects:
  • Custom jewelry
  • Small light sculpture
  • Wearables


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Average duration:
​10 lessons
Average duration:
​10 lessons
Average duration:
​8 lessons
Average duration:
​4 lessons
Average duration:
​4 lessons
Pre-paid module discount:
​12%
Pre-paid module discount:
​12%
Pre-paid module discount:
​10%
Pre-paid module discount:
​5%
Pre-paid module discount:
​5%

Special / Advanced Projects

For students who have some experience but would like guidance to make a project, students can embark on special/advanced projects, where we bring together multiple skill sets to undertake more complex projects and advance learning, or may be a deep-dive into a single topic or two of interest.

Student(s) may have existing projects in mind and want support, or we can come up with projects based on topic areas of interest.

PRICING OPTIONS & LESSON PACKAGES

Individual Lesson Rates

One Student
Two Students
Three Students
Four Students
$160
per student/lesson
$120
per student/lesson
$100
per student/lesson
$90
per student/lesson

Virtual Add-On Session

5I've found even for weekly lessons, having a shorter, 1x1 mid-week follow-up session helps keep the material fresh in student's minds. Especially when core lessons are done in small groups, the 1x1 virtual add-on session provides opportunity for 1x1 support.

Virtual sessions are generally 45-minutes in length, cost $50 per, and are conducted via video chat (e.g., Google hangouts).

Lesson Package Discounts

Discount
Number Of Lessons
5%
4 lessons
10%
8 lessons
12%
10 lessons

MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT

Students are required to pay for any materials they use and keep / are not reusable during lessons or special projects.  Use of digital fabrication equipment may require additional fees and time.

Students are not required t

Students will be able to use Sustainable Magic's experimentation and fabrication lab, where ideas can be tried and brought to life. There is an initial $100 material deposit required, but students are only charged for material they keep or use.

LOCATION

I am based on SoMa, San Francisco. It is a very convenient location, easily accessible by public transit and from the interstate highway. Please contact me if you would like lessons held elsewhere.