The objective of a Make-a-thon is to expose communities of learners from both education and industry to what deeper learning looks like and how it varies from traditional education practices. In a quote from a teacher, "Once you've seen it, you can't unsee it!"
In the morning of our Deep Dive, instructor Derek Runberg will run attendees through a crash course in writing code and electronic circuit design using the microbit which is a maker-board that lets designers connect and actuate mechanisms like LED lights, directional servos, and motors. This is a fast-paced, but extremely effective training session focused on hands-on learning. Teams will then be posted with a real-world challenge based on a human need and collaboratively design solutions combining technology and common craft supplies.
The afternoon is a sprint of making and problem solving wrapping up with an exhibition. Through this team exercise, attendees will need to critically think, collaborate and communicate ideas and in a short amount of time creatively solve their individual challenge.
In an ideal Make-a-thon, teams are comprised of a mix of adults and students working together modeling learning in the 21st century. We would like to encourage this kind of event as it can be replicated and easily adapted in communities with the goal of developing an innovative culture through clear connection between school and community or industry.
Outcomes:
Meaningful hands-on professional development - Teachers and community experience deeper learning from the perspective of a student resulting in reflection and bias toward action, designing learning activities that both challenge and meet the needs of today's learners. This experience demonstrates rigor and relevance across different learning styles and modalities through an authentic collaborative exercise.
In addition, community and industry partners experience collaboration with schools to create a more seamless experience between the real world and classroom leading to an agile and innovative culture for all.
For a visual please see our Make-a-thon video:
https://youtu.be/j2Vf8QXIhyc
