Technology, Making, & Design

Technology, Making, & Design

In order to fulfill our mission to “prepare each individual for college and a useful life,” we must include a thoughtful vision of the role of technology. It is clear that technology is becoming ever more central to our lives, and as such, it is vital that we seek to understand it. As we strive to develop Wooster students who value curiosity, kindness, and the search for truth, we prepare them to do this as technologically capable and educated people, who are prepared to ask questions about the use of and access to technology in all communities. Technology, Making, and Design curriculum builds a continuum of increased exposure and complexity in the four key areas of programming, digital media, design, and fabrication. These courses allow our students to express themselves in new ways, to see connections between disciplines that were not possible a few years ago, and to learn with their hands as well as their minds.

Makerspace 5: Creativity 0.75 credits AY 5

The Makerspace 5 experience introduces the building blocks of collaboration, design, basic programming, engineering, animation, and fabrication. Students have the opportunity to gather to create, invent, and learn through the use of various technologies and tools. The overall focus is on introducing students to the possibilities of materials and technologies for creativity. When possible, coursework and experiences within Makerspace 5 connect to project-based learning experiences happening within other content areas.

Makerspace 6: Design Thinking 0.75 credits AY 6

Through a blend of play and design, Makerspace 6 teaches strategies for innovative problem-solving via the design thinking process. Design thinking is a human-centered approach to creative thinking and problem solving. In this foundational makerspace course, students will identify problems, brainstorm, and prototype solutions while engaging in real-world, project-based, hands-on learning experiences. Students learn and apply coding skills to some design projects, and focus on choosing the most appropriate tools and technology for fabricating their designs. When possible, coursework and experiences within Makerspace 6 connect to project-based learning experiences happening within other content areas.

Makerspace 7: Digital Media 1.5 credits AY 7

Makerspace 7 offers students hands-on experiences with a variety of digital tools while leveraging problem solving skills and the design thinking process introduced in earlier coursework. Following a student-centered approach, the possibilities are vast, ranging from graphic design, animation, digital fabrication, and digital illustration.. When possible, coursework and experiences within Makerspace 7 connect to project-based learning experiences happening within other content areas.

Makerspace 8: Programming and Design 1.5 credits AY 8

The culminating makerspace experience in the Middle School program, Makerspace 8 brings together the skills in programming, design and fabrication built in previous years. Students gain expertise with increasingly complex programming ideas and tools while exploring programming, sensors, hydraulics, mechanics, and the design engineering process whereby “failure” is a normal stepping stone on the road to success. The course culminates with a project-based learning experience wherein the students apply their skills to a real-world situation.