Last year at our local Illinois Computing Educator conference, I had the opportunity to participate in a full day training for implementing the Makey Makey into curriculum.
The goal of this workshop was not only for us to be hands-on learning, but to walk away being able to train others after our full day together. Recently, our local chapter of Illinois Computing Educators held a mini conference at a local university, not only where attendees could attend rotation workshops or sign up for a full day session on the Makey Makey with myself.
This was my first time presenting on the Makey Makey, but I was confident that between my training and use in the classroom, that everything would turn out just great. Prior to this day, I’ve never spent so much time in Harbor Freight before. I think that is the hardest part, is just making sure you have all the additional extra supplies.
One thing I really like about Makey Makey, is that you don’t necessarily have to have a lesson set in place. Students can simply investigate various materials to test for conductivity, program their Makey Makey with Scratch, or creative an updated book report. I love the excitement of watching adults or students accomplish mini-milestones such as creating a circuit or making a switch.
Teaching In Stride 