We are truly transforming Technology class into STEM class. What better way to teach computer skills than to have your students first build the computer? The Raspberry Pi will take our STEM class to the next level.
Middle school students at our school all take technology.
Over the last year, I have worked hard to transform this traditional computer class into a den of STEM discovery. Using the engineering design process, students this year have constructed both digital and hands-on original designs, from Rube Goldberg Machines and balsa bridges to 3D designs, circuits and video game controllers. Students in fifth through eighth grade from all backgrounds and both genders have found they are capable of designing, building, testing and improving their own creations.
My Project
In each middle school technology class, students learn computer skills alongside the engineering design process. The Raspberry Pi seamlessly integrates the engineering design process with computer skills. Students will actually be able to build their own computer, use it to go on line, and complete given assignments. Every class also participates in an Hour of Code, where students are introduced to the basics of coding. With Raspberry Pi, students will be able to use the coding skills they have learned and apply it to real outcomes on a computer of their own creation. Students will leave technology class with not only a better understanding of how to use the computer, but also a basic understanding of how the computer works.
The next generation needs to be able to do more than use the computer.
They are expected to participate, add to, improve, and make an impact on the digital world. Students must be able to manipulate technology to build something new. Raspberry Pi is the first step in the learning process and will have a huge impact on my students today and for years to come. I do not wish to teach students to be just users of technology but also engineers of original design.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Schafer and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.