Tinkering Thinking is a concept where students are allowed to just get hands on with machinery or equipment, some of which they'd never normally be allowed to get their hands on, and see what it's made of, how it's put together and how it might work.
The 'tinkering' develops fine motor skills, critical thinking, and allows collaborative work. The first project is to take apart a computer base and find out what all the parts are and how they fit together.
I have supplied a computer base (with thanks to a neighbour), a set of small screwdrivers, a set of big screwdrivers and a set of pliers to help the students with their investigations.
There are some strict rules around being involved in this activity - only when the teacher is in the room and only the teacher is allowed to bring the box out the cupboard for use. Anyone who is using the tools in a dangerous manner will be stopped from taking part, and maximum of 5 students at a time working on the item. There is a form in the box that all students have to sign so I can keep track of who has had a turn so we can be as fair as possible letting everyone have a go.
We will wait to see what our tinkering reveals as we remove more and more screws in the computer, and maybe we will inspire some future engineers, mechanics and designers among us!
An excited group getting to grips with the computer this morning.
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