TinkerCAD is a 3D design, electronic circuit, and computer code simulator developed by Autodesk, one of the leading software companies in the architecture and engineering sector. TinkerCAD is marketed as a great entry level product for students and teachers looking to put maker-type projects into their classroom. It is most commonly used as an introduction to 3D modeling and 3D printing with younger students (K-9) with an intuitive and discoverable interface that promotes exploration and experimentation. It’s circuits simulator is a relatively recent addition to TinkerCAD. AutoDesk originally developed it as a part of their 123D Design suite in the early 2010s before integrating it with TinkerCAD in 2013 (AutoDesk, 2012).

Unlike traditional circuit simulation tools that draw the schematic diagram and present only the numerical voltage/current reading, TinkerCAD’s circuit simulation tool uses realistic looking and interactive components that mimic those that would be used in the physical world. Users can drag and drop popular circuitry components such as breadboards and microbits along with a range of sensors then connect them with wires. It also allows you to program functions through a built-in code editor using a micro-controller with an observable interactive result. Compared with traditional circuit verification tools or even performing the circuitry experiment physically, using TinkerCAD circuit for circuit analysis and verification does not require actual components. It can also simulate various conditions and even destructive simulation experiments. TinkerCAD is free for educators and students. Teachers have the ability to create accounts for students where an unlimited number of projects can be generated and shared. TinkerCAD’s functionality of providing a free entry level solution, reducing the need for physical devices, and providing a platform that supports iterative learning paired with instant feedback has significant advantages for teaching and learning.