Introducing K-12 Laser Cutting Curriculum from FLUX

Incorporating laser technology tools into your classroom settings presents unique challenges to both teachers and students. CNC machines and laser cutters, for example, demand considerable space, often taking up a large part of the classroom, and are not readily movable. In addition to this, the operation of these devices can be overwhelming to some educators and students. Often times, these types of educational courses are offered by higher education institutions, leaving lower educational levels, like junior high schools, lacking in access to this technology.

Recognizing the challenges faced by K -12 educators at various levels who are interested in integrating laser technology into their classrooms but lack the necessary know-how, FLUX has collaborated with Flux Space to develop over 40 tailored lessons for students of each educational grade. These resources are designed to guide educators in incorporating FLUX CO2 desktop laser cutters into their teaching and curriculum. FLUX believes this type of curriculum will assist schools and educators working with younger students in embracing technology and elevating the sophistication of their courses.

Before diving right into the curriculum, we believe it’s important for educators to become more familiar with FLUX CO2 Lasers and their potential applications in the classroom. FLUX offers a fantastic range of CO2 desktop laser cutters, with models varying in power from 30W to 60W and differing in workspace sizes. Educators can choose the most suitable FLUX laser cutter for their classroom based on the size of the space and the specific needs of their courses. If you are unsure about what would work best for you in your classroom setting, please reach out to us and we can help you find the best machine for your needs.

FLUX Lasers have been utilized in a wide variety of courses depending on the subject matter and curriculum, such as STEAM courses, Technology courses, Fashion courses & labs, and Architecture courses, among others. FLUX lasers also serve as valuable tools for educators in preparing teaching materials for various courses. The versatile application of FLUX lasers in the classroom aids in developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enhancing creativity, encouraging collaboration, and leading to more engaged and effective educators.

To provide educators with detailed instruction on FLUX CO2 Lasers, we’ve structured our curriculum content into two main streams. Firstly, there’s the Laser Cutter 101 series, designed to help educators quickly learn the ins and outs of operating FLUX lasers and the software Beam Studio, starting from basics and progressing through comprehensive instructional videos.

Secondly, we offer the FLUX Curriculum for K-12 Educators, segmented into three distinct educational phases:

• Kindergarten to Grade 3
• Grade 4 to Grade 7
• Grade 8 to Grade 12

For each of these phases, FLUX has developed 30 unique laser projects, complete with in-depth lesson plans to facilitate easy and effective course design for teachers. All these resources, including the Laser Cutter 101 tutorials and the FLUX K-12 Curriculum, are readily available on the FLUX YouTube Channel, which we encourage you to explore.

Laser Cutter 101 serves as an all-encompassing introduction for both beginners and enthusiasts eager to explore laser cutting. This guide thoroughly addresses the essential principles, practical uses, and crucial safety measures required for proficient laser cutting. It consists of 5 chapters, each offering educators a detailed operational guide and accompanying worksheets to facilitate learning and application.