Ten students from the Schiller-Gymnasium took part in the MacGyver Day in the Makerspace at Hof University of Applied Sciences. Their goal was to construct a self-propelled watercraft with simple household materials and use it to cross a canal.
Participants have one morning to complete the project. Only specified materials such as adhesive tape, Tetrapak, Coke, water bottles or rubbers are allowed as aids. “Google is deactivated during this time,” says René Göhring jokingly. Göhring manages the Makerspace at Hof University and supervises the teams during the competition.
“For us, it’s about the students unleashing their own creativity, drawing on their experience and skills and using the potential in the team, and not immediately looking for a solution on the Internet.”
René Göhring, head of the MakerSpace
Inspired by MacGyver, the famous television character who makes clever use of science and engineering, students will learn to use everyday objects in inventive ways. MacGyver Day at Hof University encourages interest in science and technology and allows students to discover and develop their skills. The results are presented at the end of the day and tested in a water channel. The team that performs best in the categories of teamwork, design, speed and distance traveled wins.
The MacGyver project offers an entertaining learning experience, says Bastian Schatz, teacher of computer science and economics at “Schiller.” Hands-on experimentation and trial and error are the main focus, he said. “Projects like this are part of the competency-based learning that we place a lot of emphasis on at Schiller High School.” Schatz also wants to strengthen cooperation between the university and the school.
Hof University offers excellent opportunities. Our graduates don’t always have to go far afield for good studies. They also experience that on this day.”
Bastian Schatz, teacher
