By Rama K. Ramaswamy
Last week, Upham Elementary School enjoyed its first annual Imagineering Day. This is a day dedicated to children building cardboard creations. While a few other elementary schools have similar programs called "The Day of Play," Upham teachers, staff and parent volunteers put a unique spin on the design of their day.
Weeks prior to Imagineering Day, Upham students were introduced to the engineering design process (EDP). They were given an Imagineering workbook to help them brainstorm ideas for an invention to survive on an imaginary planet. The imaginary planet had conditions such as unknown creatures, proximity to asteroids, high temperatures, lack of food, shelter, transportation and breathable air.
Students then drew out their designs on paper and then built them.
Upham Librarian Kelly Cote and teachers, Mr. Knapp, Bethany Duncan and Becky Eccher, as well as parents Erica McInnais, Caroline Hudson and Beth Anne Willett were the lead organizers of Imagineering Day.
"what a day filled with excitement of making their ideas and sketches come to life," said one Upham teacher. "We are so excited for our Upham students to combine their imagination with engineering skills to create an idea, design it and build it. The students used their ingenuity to become problem-solvers, risk-takers, flexible thinkers, and inventors. Our students took on a growth mindset and build resiliency through trial and error. The students embraced the engineering process without discouragement."
Parent volunteers felt that all the students were fully engaged in the engineering process. Furthermore, Upham students had the opportunity to experience the joy of sharing their work with classmates, all while building confidence in presenting their thoughts and ideas.
Parents and teachers observed that "students were abuzz" building transport tunnels, snack machines, robots, rocket ships, time machines, omni-movers, breathable human need providers, water tel-porters, duel filter air masks, water filters, moving satellite dishes, rocket shoes, the dog 19000, safe houses, skater houses, trash bots, American Space pyramids, and mobile homes.
Upham students are already looking forward to next year's Imagineering Day.
