Connected Learning Summit 2019

Fiber crafts have historically played a prominent role in technology innovation. Of note is the Jacquard loom that inspired the use of punch cards in the first programmable computer. We invite participants to explore how these practices can be reclaimed for technology learning and disrupting current STEM designs. In our workshop, you will participate in a make-test gallery walk where you will play with and build onto 9 fiber craft activities, including weaving, sewing, folding, crocheting, and animating, that require the use of key engineering, mathematics, and computer science concepts. These activities use low-cost and low-tech tools and materials, are easily extendable, and can align with personally relevant projects. You will walk away with new ideas and experiences that can be used in classrooms and informal spaces toward the learning and teaching of STEM concepts.