True Confessions: Failing Forward or Troubleshooting?

True Confessions

lightbulbMy poor science knowledge continues to plague me.  When I am sitting at this table and trying to figure out why the various Lego Wedo sensors aren’t working, I feel like a failure.

Now, this whole process is about trying and failing and trying again.  I understand the concept of failing forward. Really, it’s what boosted my confidence to complete this project.  But at some point, you sort of need to understand the concepts in order to make things work, right?  That’s my problem.  I’m terrified that I don’t understand some of these things.  Self-discovery is a lovely thing, but don’t you have to explain some of the concepts to the kids you work with?  That’s what makes these teachable moments — bringing the discovery around to understanding.

I lack confidence in this area.

Review: Makey Makey

Makey Makey, Programs, Reviews

Robot Basics:

  • What is it?  Makey Makey is a micro-controller. By creating a circuit, Makey Makey takes over your keyboard
    As the box says,

    Plug it in, hook it up, make stuff happen on your computer

  • What’s in the Box?  A circuit board (the Makey Makey), seven alligator clips, a USB connector, and some wires.  Also, instructions and an idea sheet.

    What's in the Makey Makey box?

    What’s in the Makey Makey box?

  • How much? $49.95
  • Age Range?  Box says 8 to infinity.  My testers were 10 – 14
  • How we acquired it:  I used the Makey Makey my library purchased.

Ideas for use: