Writing descriptive words and phrases prior to the rough draft, as well as taking action in regard to the rough draft, is known as prewriting. These prewriting notes are referred to as preformulated thoughts or systems. When these ideas are organized in a manner that is consistent with the nature of the drafting project (usually by the designer or developer) they are called upon in a discussion session with other people involved in the project. They are called on to defend their views and offer comment on the drafts. In essence, they are engaged in the process of critiquing and reviewing the drafts to bring to the attention of the person making the decisions.
Drafting instructors in technical schools, colleges, and community colleges use many of the same teaching methods as those found in the “real world”. There are several things that are taught by all drafters, however. The following list describes those things in more detail.
All drafters typically learn about perspective. Perspective refers to seeing things from an engineer’s perspective. This perspective can be highly technical (mechanical or structural) or highly general (the environment). All drafting technologists need to understand perspective. It is part of a technical school curriculum.
All drafters learn about modeling. Modeling refers to drawing the design of the structure/function in a form. All drafting technologists must learn to model. All of the greatest architects in the world have at least one major area of specialization in mechanical drafting. The great thing about this is that it provides vast possibilities for future career development.
All drafters need to understand concepts of dimensional stability and bending. All of the great structures in the world are balanced using several different methods. The best technical institutes in the world also balance structural elements (structure flexion, torsion, tension, balance, etc.) using numerous different techniques. This is another topic taught at technical institutes across the country.
All drafting techniques are based on bending. All of the technical illustrations in books are from the practical side. The best technical schools teach a variety of drawing techniques. For example, if you take an associate degree course in drafting from a community college, you will learn to draw (and graph) graphs using Direct Digital Drawing (D CAD). If you want to be an architect, you will learn how to draw (and use) architectural sketches.
All the drawing and drafting that occurs in the world require computers to prepare the final draft of the project. To get a technical diploma, you must take classes (on a computer) to prepare for your engineering or construction career. These computer technology classes prepare students to take more technology-based classes in the future. Students who take these classes also take classes to prepare them for future job market demand. It’s a good idea to take computer technology classes even if you don’t plan on taking any classes for a future career.
There are many technical drafters in today’s world. They rely on computers to help them prepare their drawings and designs. Because technology is changing so rapidly, most technical drafters are having a hard time keeping up. Taking these classes gives the students an edge over other people when it comes to climbing the ladders of success.
There are two types of drafting schools. One is the full-service technical school which prepares students to take one of the many technical certificates offered through a state-approved certification board. Other drafting schools specialize in specific subjects such as woodcraft drafting, architectural drafting and engineering drafting. Most of the full-service technical schools require students to take either a two-year associate’s degree program or a four-year bachelor’s degree program.
The other type of drafting school is the part-time technical school. Part-time drafters typically take courses in drafting that are related to their area of specialization. Some of the general drafting subjects included in these courses include mathematics, drafting fundamentals and software training. Part-time drafters typically spend two years earning an associate’s degree before they pursue a bachelor’s degree, however.