Expert: Stephen Major - 4/17/2007

Question
My son is in a intro to drafting class in high school and is having a hard time understanding the concept still. The year is almost over what book or suggestion can you give to help.

Answer
Jody,

I almost declined to answer this question because it is really a teaching/learning problem, not a technical issue.  BUT, I do have a few insights so I'll give it my best shot.

(1) My recommendation for a book is: the book that the rest of the class is using.  Study it and learn it.  If the class isn't using a book, then your son needs to go to the teacher and ask for a recommendation for other reading material that may help.  There could be an older or different drafting text in the school library or your local library.  Give them a try, but just focus on the basics - there's not a lot of time left.
(2) Did (does) your son do well in geometry?  Particularly solid geometry?  If not, then he may not have the built-in ability ot pick up on certain drafting concepts right away, and should ask for extra help in three-dimensional visualization.
(3) How are his computer skills?  Today, much drafting is performed on the computer, and some software is much easier to master than others.

I can't offer much more, except that I do recall from my high school drafing classes that many students struggled with the material.  He's not alone.  If he wants to learn it badly enough, he will.  He just needs to prioritize it right now, and take some active steps with his teacher and with self-study until the concepts become easier.

Good luck,

Steve Major