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At first glance you may look at this photo and think that what you see is a group of kids sitting and watching another student roll a Sphero Robotic Ball. What actually happens before, during, and after this photo is pure unsolicited collaboration between kids. Here is what really went down this morning in our Library Maker Center...
Mrs. Raney's 5th grade class was in the library working on their Genius Hour projects and Mrs. Neth's 3rd grade class was in checking out books. Corbin (5th grader) was busy working hard on his Sphero obstacle course. Naturally, as the third grade kiddos finished checking out, their attention turned toward the Sphero. They quietly started to gather around and watch what Corbin was working on. I was working in another area of the library when I heard a loud group groan that got my attention. When I arrived near the group, it was clear to see that Corbin ALMOST made it through his obstacle course after many unsuccessful tries. What happened next was natural collaboration between the third grade class and Corbin. The third graders told Corbin where they thought his Sphero was having problems and some ideas for solving the problems. Corbin was respectful, thankful, and open to their suggestions and he tried one that ended up working.
It was so encouraging to see the maker mindset kick in with both groups...problem solving, collaboration, learning from failure, initiative, and perseverance were happening naturally without any teacher direction or intervention. Lay the foundation, get out of the way, and watch the possibilities!
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