This May, Northwest High School’s Advanced Science class was introduced to CISCO’s Internet of Things (IoT) program through hands-on activities with technology and visits from local innovators. Learners were exposed the IoT and the concepts of connectedness, conductivity and innovation.
In one activity, students interacted with an everyday item, sticky notes. They learned that what seemed like a common product to most was actually an innovation of a completely different idea. The original focus of the invention was the adhesive. When it was determined that the adhesive did not have a permanent hold, it was thought of as a failure. It took someone with a different perspective to find an alternative use! The innovators found that they could use the semi-sticky adhesive on paper to stick to other materials without damaging it or leaving residue. Thus the modern day sticky note was born.
This exercise helped students to think outside of the box allowing them to brainstorm solutions to real world problems such as excess food waste. For example, the NMEP food hub receives food from Saving Grace Perishable Food Rescue recovered from local food retailers which is then used throughout programming in the workforce training program and cooking demonstrations. The students were tasked to think about how the food could be reorganized, reused and repurposed while it was still edible.
Other activities included the use of a Makey Makey device; an invention device that utilizes the internet, to create pianos, bongos and custom game controllers. Students also engaged with local innovators Jacob Richards from IndaFlow and Ron Woerner, a private cybersecurity consultant.
Interested in IoT? Join us at Do Space This Summer!
BUILDING THE INTERNET OF THINGS: INNOVATIONS AND PROBLEM-SOLVING
June 6, June 13, June 20, June 27 and July 18.
Join Do Space and No More Empty Pots for a five-week series all about the Internet of Things! The Internet of Things refers to the rapidly growing network of connected objects that are able to collect and exchange data using embedded sensors. Thermostats, cars, lights, refrigerators, and more appliances can all be connected to the IoT. Over the course of five lessons full of discussions and hands-on learning, participants will explore IoT capabilities to see how it can affect our local food system. Attend any lessons you choose, or join us for all of them! This series is intended for teens ages 13-16.
For more information on IoT programming, contact Audrey at awoita@www.nmepomaha.org or 314.517.6733.
