Hello World

After some reading and Youtube videos, I was finally able to jump in and do some programming on the Arduino micro.  I have had fun experimenting with the different sketches.

One of the things that has stuck with me most is how passion can drive learning. See, as a science teacher, I already knew, or memorized Ohms's law. However, it was not until I started having to use resistors with the LED lights, that I truly began to understand Ohm's law. My first steps in my maker inquiry has confirmed what I have always thought. If learning is for an authentic purpose, it is much more meaningful.



After tinkering around with the micro, I made my way to the Generator to borrow the SparkFun Redboard. It was there I was able to meet with Cynthia and see the amazing work she is doing with Lilypad. We have already been able to connect and share resources via Twitter. Now that we have made a connection, I am looking forward to building further our connection.

I captured some of the fun I have had with my programming. Here is an example of my "Hello World"

Getting Oriented

In the process of taking the first steps to my new learning adventure, Making Geoacaches.

I have been able to make a few visits to the generator first with Lucie and then again with the orientation last week. Now that I have a better understanding of the possibilities, I am working on planning what I want to learn.

As an avid geoacacher, I am looking to see how I can incorporate the arduino to "make" geocaches. If times allows, may also look into how rapid prototyping may be able to help design geocaches as well.

Geoacaching is a great way to combine technology, outdoor learning, and ramification. Not only do I love to geocache for personal growth, I use the technology to incorporate into learning with the staff and students at FWSU. 

For a little background info, here is a link to a recent post I wrote for FWSU on a geocache that was created by a group of students who participated in an after school geocaching group. 

If you have questions or ideas to share about being a geocacher maker, let me know. Always love to share my passion.

Welcome Angelique

I'd like to welcome Angelique Fairbrother to the  Ignite a Maker cadre. Angelique will be emerging as a Maker during the months of April and May.   She currently works in educational technology at Franklin West Supervisory Union where she supports teachers and students in all types of technology rich learning, including coordinating the annual district engineering day event.  Can't wait to see her grow as a maker.