I recently learned about a group of amazing kids in Howe, Oklahoma who use technology to harnass their creative talents. They’re learning by creating content for presentations that they share over the internet. They’re also taking “virtual fieldtrips,” visiting places around the country and the world that they might never get a chance to see in person.
This kinds of hands-on engagement has taken them well beyond the typical textbook learning. And it reminded me of what the FabLab concept (which Diama and Micah have written about ) is all about – give kids a creative outlet, and they’ll take advantage. It’s inspiring and exciting to see it, and I think as a community we should work towards ensuring ALL kids have access to these creative opportunities.
You can see what the Howe students have created – they’re so good that they won First Place in the Kids Creating Community Content contest in 2008 and Third Place in 2009.
Very cool! Also, check out iEarn at http://iearn.org/. It’s a world initiative that enables teachers and students around the world to collaborate through technology. The website is worth exploring. Found this resource through the Fab Lab network.