This project has integrated beautifully with our Mobile Museum programming. We have been able to expand the number of children that are able to interact with and participate in the engineering lessons we bring to local libraries/schools/community centers. Students and educators are excited for this improved opportunity!
Timeline: We will start our project immediately! Our education team has spoken at length about increasing our Rigamajig programming to our collection of mobile exhibits. This funding will allow us to fulfill a goal we've had for over a year.
Budget: San Diego Children's Discovery Museum is planning on using the project funds to support additional Rigamajig Add-On components in order to enhance the current experience we offer. We plan on spending the funds on a Rigamajig travel/storage bag, and a rubber/foam mat for the floorning under the Rigamajig. We often have outdoor/covered space where we could use the Rigamajig, but don't to damage it on concrete flooring.
Impact: Thusfar in 2024, we have served approximately 12,500 children in our community through our Mobile Museum program. The Rigamajig interactive exhibit will further improve STEAM education by providing hands-on learning experiences that foster problem-solving, creativity, and collaboration. Children engage in open-ended construction projects, which help them develop critical thinking skills while integrating principles from engineering, math, art, and science. By working together, they improve communication and social skills, while gaining an intuitive understanding of basic engineering concepts. This exciting, playful environment inspires a lifelong interest in STEAM subjects, encouraging children to explore further and envision careers in these fields.
Location: This project will be part of our Mobile Museum (we currently have a fleet of 4 vehicles that provide services throughout San Diego County). Our community outreach and education events are a combination of free and paid events in our community. We often use libraries, community centers, parks, etc. which always allow for well over the required 100 square feet of space for the Rigamajig.
We will have multiple kid leaders that will provide leadership and guidance to other participants at each particular event. The kid leaders will be charged with creating design ideas for the Rigamajig that can be use as examples at our community events.
Participating in our first team meeting was Izzie (5 years old), seen in team photo. She is excited to create with Rigamajig and share her designs and ideas with her peers!
The kid leader designs will be printed and used as examples of pre-design engineering at out events.
