Inside The Trades presented by Foundryy
EP 52: Hardware Store Hero: Make Stuff Move's Guide to Hands-On Education, with Dan Kitchen
Episode notes
This week's guest is Dan Kitchen, the founder of Make Stuff Move. Make Stuff Move is a social enterprise that aims to bridge the gap between STEM education and the skilled trades by providing hands-on kits that teach children about engineering, electronics, and problem-solving.
Dan shares the inspiration behind Make Stuff Move and discusses how he wants to empower kids to explore their creativity and learn practical skills through building and tinkering. He emphasizes the importance of integrating STEM and trades education, as well as fostering confidence and a love for learning in children.
Throughout the conversation, Dan highlights the accessibility and affordability of the Make Stuff Move kits, which utilize everyday materials and tools found at hardware stores. He also talks about the positive reception he has received from educators and school boards, despite the challenges of budget constraints.
Key Takeaways:
- Hands-on learning experiences, such as building and tinkering, can foster creativity, problem-solving, and confidence in students.
- Make Stuff Move kits provide an accessible and affordable way to engage students in engineering and electronics using everyday materials and tools.
- Educators can use Make Stuff Move kits to teach students about the practical applications of STEM concepts and introduce them to the world of trades.
- Connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations in the skilled trades community can provide support and opportunities for collaboration in education.
- The goal is to make STEM and trades education scalable and accessible to all students, regardless of their background or resources.
- Make Stuff Move is actively working on expanding its reach to the United States and welcomes partnerships and collaborations with educators and institutions.
To Learn More about Dan:
- Make Stuff Move
- Dan Kitchen on LinkedIn
- Make Stuff Move Youtube
- Make Stuff Move Instagram
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