Reflection #9 – Design Lab

Yesterday we visited the Design Lab at Kootenay Orchards, and it was such an eye-opening experience. I had heard about the space before, but being there in person made me really appreciate how creative and hands-on it is. It wasn’t just a tech room, it felt like a true Makerspace where students get to explore, build, experiment, and learn in ways that go beyond traditional classroom activities. We got to see several different stations, including a chomp saw, 3D printing, coding, button making, and the movement-tracking watches. What stood out to me was how each station supports a different way of learning. Some kids might connect more with building, others with designing, others with experimenting or problem-solving. The Design Lab gives space for all of that.

I found the movement-coded watches especially interesting. The watches were already programmed, so when students came to use them, they had to figure out which movements matched each symbol. Because the watch wasn’t always perfect at detecting differences, it naturally encouraged kids to try again, switch up their ideas, and think creatively about what motions might work. It’s a simple activity, but it builds persistence, confidence, and curiosity.

Seeing how many options the lab offers made me excited for our own teaching day on Friday. It reminded me how important it is to give students multiple paths into learning not just one right way. Whether they are coding, building, designing, or creating, they are getting the chance to explore ideas in a more open and playful way.

Overall, the visit helped me see how spaces like the Design Lab support innovation and student-centered learning. It made me look forward to trying the stations myself and eventually running them with students.