TekkiKids: Technology clubs for children

Abstract

TekkiKids is a part of the The Young Engineers of South Africa (YESA) programme which is an initiative aimed at increasing the pipeline for the generation of more scientists, engineers and technologists by creating the necessary interest and involvement of learners. The aim of the TekkiKids project is to research hands-on, experiential learning via technology clubs for children aged 9-12. Sponsored by DST and the Finnish Embassy, this research is done in partnership with the University of Pretoria and the University of Joensuu in Finland. The methodology used in Finland is being replicated in South Africa and adapted to local conditions. In the pilot phase of this three year project three groups of learners from well-resourced and less well-resourced schools were selected and exposed to science and technology via challenges and other fun activities that cover the design and building of simple structures right through to the building of robots. We discuss our initial experiences regarding the dynamics of paring well-resourced and less well-resourced schools and the use of various technologies such as Lego Mindstorms and waste materials such as cardboard. Computer literacy proved to be a constraint that had to be addressed. The technology clubs proved to be a good testing ground for the use of novel ways of introducing concepts such as programming. The difficulty that some of the learners experienced in constructing devices using Lego and other materials highlighted the need for basic skills that can only be gained via experience. The implications of our experiences, in the design of a three year curriculum framework for technology clubs, is discussed.