STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.
Using the program Tinkercad, I designed a firefly. The program was tricky to get the hang of, but once I did, I was able to move the 3D objects across the building grid and create my firefly.
We started the class by interviewing a classmate about their dream pet. Farah's dream pet was a goldendoodle dog that could help her with chores, cuddle, and go for runs with her. Then using the materials provided, we created that pet. This was a challenging 3D sculpture project that was open ended and could be tailored to our own aesthetics. I used cardboard, tape, cassette tape, googly eyes, and paint to create the pet for my partner. We learned about micro-bits and how to code them and tailor them to our pet. I programmed the micro-bit to read "Let's run!", "I'm here to help!", and "Let's cuddle!" I also added imagery and sound effects.
DAY 3
Micro-bits + Pets= Micro-pets Continued
Click on the button below to see my pet in action!
Using Tinkercad, I was able to create this little bug, and then it printed so perfectly! This is my first ever 3D printed object that designed myself!
LilyTiny Plush Monster and E-Textiles
This might have been my favorite project of this class! We learned how to sew a circuit using conductive thread, LilyTiny microcontroller, On/Off Switch, and LED lights. Using felt as my monster's body, I sewed the circuit carefully making sure to keep the negative and positive lines clear of each other. It was tricky, but I got it easier than other projects we have done this week. Then I sewed facial features on top of the LED lights-white eyes, and a heart mouth. I sewed protective coverings over most of the circuits, added some sequins, and then decided I didn't want it to have arms, so i snipped the excess felt off. I then stitched up my monster- stuffing it with fiber fill. You can easily turn the monster's lights on and off using the switch and it is the cutest little thing!
Click on the button below to see my Monster light up!
This article exemplified what this class was for me. We were given a chance to play, explore, and create. The engineering aspects were concrete lessons and step by step, but every other creative component was left up to us, the students to play. I loved how the overarching theme was choice. I can definitely see ways in which to implement concepts from this theory into my lesson plans. I believe I already to do provide my students with choice and play time, but I think I could be even less directive with their exploration and play. I always try to have my students figure out how to draw or sculpt things on their own (after some basic and general demonstration). But if I would leave things more open-ended for them, it might push those who rely too heavily on instruction or my help.