Hack. Hacker. Hacking. A word that has different connotations-
apparently! I used to think that hack meant to “break into” or corrupt a
computer. A “hack” was a cheater or a lazy, good-for-nothin’. Well, in the past
few months as I’ve researched MakerSpaces and making, I’ve discovered that the
word ‘hack’ has a different nuance to it -
fun, creative, rather positive aura to it. It’s a good thing to hack an
assignment or a piece of equipment, a tool or an object, to make it work better
for you and your needs. Who knew??! Thing is – I’ve always been a
rule-follower. Hacking doesn’t come naturally to me. I just use things as they
were built to be, rarely, if ever, making modifications. People who do this all
the time have my utmost admiration! The only exception to this is in regards to
teaching lesson plans or unit plans. I always work them with my learners in
mind – and they change semester to semester.
I wonder if it’s because I feel confident as a teacher? However, with
objects/things – I don’t feel that way at all.
So why is this coming up now? I’m taking the Critical Making course at
UOIT and I have to make and hack things – yikes!! I don’t even know where to
begin!
This is going to be quite a learning journey!

I have confidence in your making ability! Let's play!
ReplyDeleteWay to go! I love that you're making yourself "uncomfortable" in an effort to learn more. I can't wait to hear what this course teaches you about your students, yourself, and teaching in general.
ReplyDeleteAviva