Introduction to 3D Design & Digital Fabrication with Tinkercad
A Tinkercad course and certificate can give learners a useful introduction to 3D design, CAD, electronics and digital fabrication, particularly for beginners before progressing to software such as SOLIDWORKS, Fusion 360 or AutoCAD.
Note: The Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for this course is 60 this includes 30 GLH direct learning 30 hours to complete all the practices tests on the system to prepare learners for exam.
An Autodesk Certified User certification in AutoCAD validates the entry-level skills needed to effectively use AutoCAD software including creating or plotting drawings, editing objects, working with layouts, reuse existing content, annotate drawings and organise objects.
For this and further information please go to:https://www.autodesk.com/certification
Target Award
Autodesk Autodesk AutoCAD Certified User – AACU
Start Date: 25-08-2026 Hours/week: 06 Hrs 00 Mins Duration: 16 weeks
Junior Certificate or equivalent
Age Requirements
Statutory School Leaving Age 16+
Learning Aptitude
Be creative, detail oriented, technical and have good time management skills
Previous Experience
AutoCAD is used by a number of professions including Architects; Interior Designers and Drafters who convert engineering or architectural designs into technical drawings and plans.
| Module | Award | Body |
|---|---|---|
| Autodesk AutoCAD User | Autodesk AutoCAD Certified User (AACU) | Autodesk |
Learning outcomes
By the end of a Tinkercad course, learners should be able to:
1. Understand basic CAD principles
Understand what CAD is and how it is used in design and manufacturing.
Navigate a 3D CAD workspace.
Understand basic concepts such as dimensions, scale, coordinates and units.
2. Create 3D models
Create objects using basic geometric shapes.
Move, rotate, resize and align components accurately.
Combine and subtract shapes to produce more complex models.
Use grouping, duplication and other modelling tools.
3. Apply design principles
Interpret a design brief and develop a suitable 3D solution.
Consider dimensions, tolerances and functionality.
Modify and refine a design based on testing or feedback.
4. Develop problem-solving skills
Break a physical object or problem into smaller design components.
Experiment with different modelling approaches.
Identify and correct errors in a digital model.
5. Prepare designs for manufacture
Understand the relationship between a digital model and a manufactured component.
Export models in suitable formats such as STL.
Understand the basic workflow from CAD → 3D printing.
Consider orientation, supports and printability.
6. Explore electronics and circuits
Build simple virtual circuits using Tinkercad Circuits.
Identify common electronic components such as LEDs, resistors, switches and sensors.
Understand basic series and parallel circuits.
Simulate circuits before physically building them.
7. Develop introductory programming skills
Understand basic programming concepts.
Use block-based programming to control electronic components.
Progress towards basic Arduino programming where appropriate.
8. Develop digital skills
Manage and organise digital design files.
Follow a digital design workflow.
Use online collaborative design tools appropriately.
Present and explain a completed design.