[s1900ahon]

From a motivation perspective we've found a couple of things help.

First, the students must understand (discover) the value of using SolidWorks (or other). 1) Easier to explain something with a picture than with words (especially as they're learning the lingo and most can't sketch worth beans), and 2) They figure out they can assemble something virtually faster than physically (I won't even go into how quick it is to "cut" a hole in a SolidWorks part compared to using the edge finder on the mill). So *why* do CAD starts the motivation, and I've found to keep out of the way of a motivated high schooler.

Second, when you have a core of enlightened and motivated students, turn them loose on their peers. This is exactly what happened this summer as our students regularly met at the school or public libraries to teach themselves the material. Awesome to see. If you'd like more details, contact LCJ who led this effort.