Unlocking the Power of STEAM: Tech Turn Up's Hackathon Journey
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the role of technology has become increasingly important. However, not everyone fully understands the value of technology in the classroom.
This post dives into the story of individuals who initially had doubts about the significance of technology but were transformed by the impact of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) activities, mainly through a transformative event - Tech Turn Up's Hackathon.
Tech Turn Up and the Hackathon Experience:
Tech Turn Up (TTUP) is an organization on a mission to bridge the technology gap among students, school organizations, principals, and teachers. Their primary objective is to introduce high-demand computer skills to students while connecting them with technology and creative arts experts. One of their key initiatives is the Hackathon, an event designed to engage students in project-based learning and encourage their interest in STEAM fields.
The Hackathon Experience:
Before diving into the success and impact of the Hackathon, it's essential to understand the unique challenges TTUP faces. Many individuals and organizations we engaged with had limited exposure to technology-based opportunities or the broader STEAM field. The term "Hackathon" was unfamiliar to them, and they had never interacted with technology industry professionals at any event.
Success Metrics:
TTUP set clear success metrics for the Hackathon event:
Project-Based Learning: 15 out of 20 students completed the design thinking prototype.
Qualitative Feedback: 90% of students said they enjoyed the opportunity and learned more about STEAM through the Hackathon. Additionally, 80% expressed interest in exploring STEAM and participating in future Hackathon events.
Context Analysis: Peer and self-assessment revealed that students described their and their peers' contributions as 'innovative' and 'creative.' Some students even mentioned a positive perspective shift, indicating a transformative experience.
Audience Engagement: Staff observed that 70% of students asked informed questions during prototype presentations, and 90% provided direct feedback on their group's prototype.
Collaborative Group Work: An outstanding 90% of students worked collaboratively in groups.
Inspiring Success Stories:
One remarkable success story emerged from the Hackathon. A student who faced unique challenges, including difficulty grasping concepts and restlessness, was included in creating a 3D cardboard model of a mobile device. This hands-on task harnessed the student's creativity and energy, resulting in visuals that exceeded expectations and made the project stand out. This story exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovative solutions to challenges.
Conclusion:
Tech Turn Up's Hackathon is a testament to the transformative power of STEAM education and technology in the classroom. Despite initial skepticism, the success metrics, inspiring stories, and adaptability of TTUP highlight the importance of initiatives like these in bridging the technology gap and inspiring students to explore STEAM fields. With continued support and innovation, TTUP is poised to make an even more significant impact in the future.