We’re home now from our week at ISTE 2016 in Denver, and we’ve unpacked and sorted through our bags of brochures, flyers, cards, and catalogs. For STEM and MakerEd aficionados, this was our year and our conference. Manufacturers and developers are catching on to and up with the STEM and Makerspace movement. They are understanding that innovation is not a moment of exception in the world of education, but a real pedagogical movement!
For classrooms, schools and districts seeking the right tools for this work, here are some exciting new tools that were talked about and demonstrated at ISTE 2016:
Circuitry and Electronics
Chibitronics Circuit Stickers — “Materials and techniques for blending electronics with traditional arts and crafts media to create personally meaningful technology and new media for self-expression.” Although we’ve been using copper tape, batteries and led lights for our projects, these kits provide all a young maker needs to build an understanding of circuitry while merging art and literacy into the work. Back in Durham, we were able to use our kits this week at Camp TechTerra. Huge success!
SAM Labs Internet Connected Electronics Kit — “Wireless blocks and drag-and-drop app allow anyone to learn the basics of programming and become an instant inventor.”
Little Bits Electronic Building Blocks — “Color-coded, magnetic, reusable.” Not new to makers, but the Pro Library that Little Bits had on display was impressive and expansive.
Coding and Robotics
Kano Computer and Coding Kit — “Make a computer, learn what’s inside, play with code.” 2016 is our second year using Kano at Camp TechTerra. This year we’ve used the Screen Kit, another huge hit.
RoboTerra Robotic Collection Kit — “A platform not only to develop robots, but also to develop skills.”
Dexter Industries GoBoxEd Curriculum — “A full lineup of totally customizable robot kits that work on your favorite platforms like Raspberry Pi, Arduino, and Lego Mindstorms.” We’ve been using Dexter robot kits at Camp TechTerra. Their GoBoxEd Missions for grades 4-12 are a true guide for STEM and Maker teachers.
Primo Toys Cubetto Robot — “The coding toy for girls and boys aged three and up. No screens, just play.” We’ve been working and playing with this robot for over a year, partnering with Primo Toys in testing and development as they’ve gone from concept to market, and have found it to be a powerful tangible introduction to coding for all ages. At ISTE this year, we were pleased to be able to demo Cubetto.
Makerspace Hardware
XYZPrinting 3D Printing Solutions — “Cost-effective 3D printing [for] personnel and business.” We’ve been talking about the Da Vinci Jr for the last few months, given its ease of use, hardiness — holding up over constant use — and its value. The new XYZPrinting STEAM curriculum exchange program provides real support to teachers.
AP Lazer High Power Laser Machines & Laser Engraving Systems — “Large format laser engraving machines with patented open architecture and no size/weight restrictions.” We’re excited about the tabletop Laser Machine size, given space concerns within many school-based makerspaces and STEM labs.
