Instructables—DIY How To Make Instructions

Instructables contains a series of Do-It-Yourself projects that fellow users have uploaded. From its home screen, users can view both featured and recently added projects. When users find a project of interest, they can tap it to read and view images pertaining to the project and how to complete it. Additionally, users can favorite the project by tapping the “Heart” button, comment about it by tapping the “Dialog” button, or share it by tapping the “Megahorn” button. Users can also choose to be updated when the creator of the project uploads something new by tapping the “Follow” button. If users have a particular interest, they can tap the “Categories” button on the home screen to search projects by theme. If users register with the app and then sign in, they will be able to create their own projects that can be shared on Instructables, or they can enter contests featured in the app. These options can be accessed by tapping the “Lined” button on the top right of the app.

Instructional Ideas

1. Teachers can require students to select a project on this app and complete it. Afterward, students can report on their experience completing the project by creating a presentation using the PowerPoint, Prezi, FlowVella, Viva Video, or TouchCast apps. The presentation can first give an overview of the project, the steps required for completing the project, images of the project during and after its completion, areas that challenged the student when completing the project, and suggestions for other individuals who may want to complete the project.
2. As an assignment, teachers can require students to select a contest and enter it. After students complete the project and submit it to the contest, they can report back to the class by summarizing the contest, explaining how they created their entry, and predicting how they will fare in the contest.
3. As a digital-presentation project, teachers can allow students to select a topic they know well (e.g., throwing a curveball, creating a balsa wood tower, or applying makeup), and create a project based on the topic for this app. Once uploaded, students can share it with the class. Fellow students can then view the project and complete it. Students can provide feedback to the student who created the project by explaining what they liked about the project, where they struggled while completing it, and tips for improving it.

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