This week I got a chance to check out the SD#5 design lab located in a located elementary school. We got to see many cool technologies that can be used in schools (keep reading for more details!) as well as learn and reflect on “Innovation in Education”.
Innovation In Education 📚😁
What is it?
Innovation in education means to use new technologies and advances to increase motivation in students to use their independence, collaboration skills, creativity and imagination. Using innovative technologies in the classroom will create a space with less barriers and more inclusion for students.
Why does this matter?
In a diverse classroom students will have all levels of abilities and every student will be different. The great thing about innovation in education is it aims to meet all students needs. It allows students to create at levels where they are at and can achieve personal and academic goals. Ultimately, it will increase students motivation in the classroom and create a safe and innovative space for every student to learn and grow in.
SD#5 Design Lab📱🎨
The SD#5 design lab is a cool space that has tons of cool technologies for classrooms in the district come try out! A few tools they have are…
- 3D printers
- Lego
- VR Headsets
- Laser cutter
- Books
- And So Much More!
The design lab is the perfect example for innovation in education. Unfortunately, not every school will have the same resources, but with the design lab any classroom in the district can come and spend the day working in the lab. (Even busing is covered) This way every student has the same opportunities. This lab is a safe space for students to use their creativity and imagination in an educational setting and increase their motivation to learn! The design lab is an incredible space that our communities are blessed to have, because every student deserves the opportunity to learn and use advanced technologies.
What Stood Out?
As soon as we walked into the lab I noticed the space was an open concept with lots of room to move around. The building and space was also accessible for all students. The space was also filled with so many cool things. I could have spent hours just looking at everything! Most importantly I noticed how safe and inclusive the space is. The team who runs the design lab have students best interests at heart and it really shows!
The Activities I Tried!
I tried the game Pixicade on an iPad. This game allows students to draw a game, take a picture of it and the app will bring the game to life!
Books📚
There was so many books to give a quick read. I definitely will be using these resources when I am a teacher!
Into My Career 👩🎓✏️
I envision to use this space when my students need something to look forward to in their week. The design lab is so much fun that students do not even realize they are learning. If I find my students are lacking motivation and need that boost of creativity I would definitely utilize the design lab! I would do projects such as Lego, 3D print their designs and the Scribed Pens! I would plan an activity that was cross curricular and then head to the design lab to make their designs come true! The options are endless.
This is a Scribed Pen. It’s kinda like 3D printing but without the printer! It’s a pen that melts a plastic material to create 3D designs. A link is attached to photos above!