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The sounds of buzzing laser cutters, whirring 3D printers, and excited chatter filled Jackie Krablean's Maker Space classroom recently. These weren't just ordinary class activities; they were integral parts of the innovative "4th Grade Housing Project," a hands-on STEM endeavor that saw students take on the roles of architects, carpenters, electricians, interior designers, and painters to create their very own miniature houses.

Spearheaded by Jackie Krablean, a passionate science teacher and dedicated STEM champion, the project aimed to provide students with a tangible and engaging way to explore various scientific and engineering principles. "The goal was to make learning come alive," explained Krablean, her enthusiasm evident. "By putting them in charge of designing and building these homes, they weren't just memorizing concepts; they were actively applying them."

The 4th Grade Housing Project commenced with students embracing the role of architects, not by imagining entirely new structures, but by selecting from a variety of existing housing designs to meet the needs of their assigned "customer." Just like real-world architects, they had to consider crucial factors such as scale, functionality, and aesthetics, all while adhering to a specific budget and fulfilling the items on their customer's wish list. This careful planning phase saw them translate their chosen designs and budgetary constraints into digital blueprints. It was here that the magic of technology began to unfold, as a 2D laser printer precisely cut the housing walls from thin wood panels, transforming their digital visions into tangible building components.

Next, the students transitioned into their roles as carpenters, carefully assembling the laser-cut pieces to form the basic structures of their houses. The meticulous work fostered problem-solving skills and an understanding of spatial relationships.

But these weren't just empty shells. Embracing the power of additive manufacturing, the young engineers utilized a 3D printer to create miniature furniture, from tiny tables and chairs to intricate beds and shelves. This introduced them to the world of digital design and the fascinating possibilities of 3D printing.

Bringing their creations to life required the expertise of budding electricians. Each house was equipped with a small electric board connected to an LED lamp, allowing the students to understand basic circuitry and the concept of providing light and power. The triumphant glow of their tiny lightbulbs was a testament to their newfound electrical skills.

Resourcefulness and creativity were further encouraged as students took on the roles of internal designers and artists. Leftover wood panels, initially seen as scraps, were repurposed to create unique artwork and additional furniture pieces, showcasing their ingenuity and commitment to sustainability. Finally, the painters added the finishing touches, injecting personality and vibrancy into their miniature houses with colorful palettes.

Throughout the 4th Grade Housing Project, Krablean emphasized collaboration and teamwork. Students shared ideas, offered assistance, and learned from each other's strengths. The classroom transformed into a bustling construction site, filled with the energy of young minds actively engaged in the design and creation process.

The 4th Grade Housing Project, made possible thanks to a generous DoDEA 2024 grant, wasn't just about building miniature houses; it was about building skills, fostering creativity, and sparking an interest in STEM fields. By taking on diverse roles and utilizing cutting-edge technology, these fourth-grade students gained invaluable hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. Jackie Krablean's innovative approach, supported by this crucial funding, has undoubtedly laid a strong foundation for these young learners, inspiring them to become the problem-solvers and innovators of tomorrow