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Wellesley College Research Guides

ANTH/MAS 246: Digital Anthropology

Technology Options and How to Get Started

Questions about making something physical, 3D, or interactive? 

Email Johanna Okerlund - jokerlun@wellesley.edu 

Set up a time with Johanna! https://calendly.com/jokerlun 

 

Questions about Mapping, Storymaps, Twine, or anything geography-related? 

Email Tracy Tien - tt103@wellesley.edu 

Set up a time with Tracy! https://wellesley.libcal.com/appointments/tt103/it

 

Getting Started with Maps, GIS, and Geospatial Data

https://libguides.wellesley.edu/maps 

 

ArcGIS Storymaps 

https://libguides.wellesley.edu/c.php?g=103318&p=7453031

 

Storymap JS 

https://libguides.wellesley.edu/c.php?g=103318&p=9622339 

 

Games 

Note that LTS staff can help you use these apps to an extent, but they are not part of the software we officially support. Be sure to check the terms and conditions before creating your own account.

Twine - make text-based games. Can also incorporate media

Unity - the most popular and robust game engine. Only recommended if you have prior Unity experience 

Bitsy - make 8-bit style games, which you can host on itch.io

More options to explore 

 

Websites

Unless you already have experience with a website we suggest using Google Sites.

Here’s a guide on how to use Google Sites

Google Sites is easy to use, but limited in terms of what interface elements you are able to change.

  • You CAN create a custom color scheme 
  • You CAN’T use more than 3 colors 
  • You CAN use gifs 
  • You CAN make a gif or an image into a link (ie a custom button) 
  • You CAN embed a Google Slide presentation 
  • You CAN embed Sketchfab objects (use the Embed feature) 

 

3D scanning 

Polycam 
  • Install Polycam on your own device 
  • How to use 
  • No account is necessary! If it asks for you to sign up for a trial, just click the X in the corner.
  • To export 3D models, click the Download button, select GLTF as the file type, then click Export. Share the file with yourself via email or any other method so you can access it on your computer. 
  • If the 3D model looks messy or has extra bits, you can import the GLTF to Blender and sculpt / clean the unwanted pieces there. Email Johanna (jokerlun@wellesley.edu) for a tutorial! 
Artec Spider 3D scanner 

If the Polycam app is not scanning with high enough quality, email Johanna (jokerlun@wellesley.edu) to set up a time to learn how to use the Artec Spider 3D scanner.

 

3D Interaction 

In person help - Email Johanna (jokerlun@wellesley.edu) or set up a time to meet https://calendly.com/jokerlun 

 
Augmented Reality 

Getting started with Adobe Aero 

 
SketchFab 

Find existing collections or use to store and display 3D models. SketchFab models are easily viewable in VR and can easily be embedded into websites or other tools. 

How to annotate models 

 
Blender / Virtual Reality 

Meet with Johanna to discuss which tool / approach is best for your idea! https://calendly.com/jokerlun 

Use Knapp’s Oculus Rift devices any time the library is open. There are lots of apps in the Oculus Library to try. Ask a Fabrication Consultant for help during these hours

 
3D Modeling 

Tinkercad - Simple 3D modeling to make block-like models (it’s hard to make or manipulate organic shapes). Knapp 3D printing training includes a brief introduction to Tinkercad!

Blender - Free advanced 3D modeling software for sculpting and complex modeling. Also easy to integrate with VR. Set up a time with Johanna to get started.

 

Knapp Resources

Knapp (Mod 304 in the yellow building) is open any time during library hours. Many resources are walk-up-and-use. Some machines (3D printers, sewing machines, digital embroidery machine) require training before use. 

Sign up for training on 3D printers, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and more. Check out equipment including cameras, projectors, and adapters. Find everything here

Student workers can answer questions about how to use the machines during Fabrication Staffed Hours. Email Johanna (jokerlun@wellesley.edu) with questions about projects or where to get started!