The Idea Melting Pot (IMP) : an openly-editable web-based community learning resource for builders
Name
226233993-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
9.91 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
3d1049b4b1017a7ade3a3575c7c5277e
Author(s)
Nichols, Laura E
Advisor(s)
David Cavallo.
Alternative Title
Openly-editable web-based community learning resource for builders
Date Issued
2007
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
This thesis discusses the development, use, and potential future for an openly-editable web-based community learning resource for builders. The idea for a resource such as this and how it might be structured stems from Seymour Papert's vision of a Constructopedia: [...] a browsable, interactive database, designed to help children build structures, mechanisms, and computer programs as well as to make connections to the mathematical and scientific ideas underlying those constructions. Whereas encyclopedias focus on "what is," the Constructopedia focuse[s] on "how to" and "what if." The Constructopedia [is] intended as a communal resource in which children not only get access to building tips, but also contribute their own ideas and designs [Lifelong Kindergarten, 2007]. The IMP differs from existing resources in three key ways. First, by allowing for both project pages and concept pages to be added and by providing numerous, flexible ways of navigating the site, the IMP attempts to treat learning through construction more like the immersive learning of a new language. Second, due to its collaborative nature, the IMP serves as a place where builders can reflect on their ideas, share their projects, and contribute to the learning environment. Third, the IMP attempts to support the use of whatever materials are locally available to the builder instead of only focusing on one type of material or on one particular kit.
Description
Thesis (S.M.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, School of Architecture and Planning, Program in Media Arts and Sciences, 2007.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 62-63).
Subjects
Architecture. Program in Media Arts and Sciences.
MIT Department
Program in Media Arts and Sciences (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Terms of Use
M.I.T. theses are protected by
copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but
reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written
permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.
copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but
reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written
permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.
Persistent DSpace Link
