A basic introduction to electronics and computer programming. Students build simple circuits, design and program games and interactive art projects and create custom controllers for their programs.
Current Classes (Fall 2018)
Scratch and Circuits!
Programming Behavior
An introduction to digital electronics, computer programming, and robotics using Scratch and the BBC Micro:Bit.
Cardboard Contraptions
Learn about basic crafting tools and techniques while designing and building cardboard toys, games, and machines!
Scratch Club
An informal time and space for kids who love Scratch to learn, work, share, and play together.
Water Bottle Rocketry
Design and build water bottle rockets and launchers as well as tools and techniques for measuring launch-height in order to test and refine designs.
What is Programming?
An introduction to computer programming for curious grown-ups with little to know technical experience or background using Javascript and p5.js.
Community Open-Shop
Drop-in and semi-facillitated community open-shop hours for people to work on projects, learn tools and skills, and make connections.
Introduction to Minecraft Modding
A class on writing mods for Minecraft using Minecraft Forge and Java. Designed for students with no programming background.
Maker Club
An informal time and space for kids who love making things to build, tinker, share, and make together.
Diplomacy
A facilitated game of Diplomacy, a classic strategy board game with a focus on negotiation, relationship-building, and treachery.
Flatpack -- Fix the Future
Optimistic, post-apocalyptic role-playing/collaborative-storytelling in a world of mutant insects, radioactive zombies, ridiculous AIs and fantastic technology.
Recent Classes (Fall 2017-Spring 2018)
Modelling Life
An introduction to object-oriented programming through agent-based modelling. Students build a simple digital ecosystem simulation that responds to external stimuli from real-world sensors and other input.
3D Animation
A class on 3D modelling using Maya but also on how to find and learn from online tutorials and other pedagogical resources.
Video Game Analysis
A critical analysis of video games in an attempt to answer fundamental questions about what makes a game and what makes one fun and interesting.
Teaching with Scratch
An introduction to programming and playing with Scratch for elementary and middle-grades teachers with a focus on encouraging student play and exploration.
Teaching with the Micro:Bit
An introduction to programming and playing with the BBC Micro:Bit for middle-grades teachers with a focus on encouraging student play and exploration.
Intro to 3D Printing
An introduction to basic 3D modelling and the 3D printing workflow to certify students to use FabVille 3D printers.
Build a Computer
Take apart old computers, identify and learn about components and repair and build new computers for our computer lab.
What's a Microcontroller?
An introduction to microcontroller programming and robotics for curious grownups.
Modelling the World
A hands-on introductory programming class exploring the basic ideas of computational modelling and simulation using Scratch.
Game Design Lab
A class on board and card game design focused on prototyping, playtesting, discussion, and iteration.
Older Classes (2016-2017)
Crafting Science, Recreational Math, Text Adventures, Wind Turbine Design, Artificial Intelligence and Evolution, Logic and Puzzles, Science of Sound, Musical Instrument Making, RC Cars + Blimps