Garreth Heidt

Testimonial #2

Another letter, though from the same author as testimonial #1, about the impact of the type of learning students experience(d) in Design Lab/NOVA Lab. Dear Mr. Heidt, I hope you’re doing well! And that you remember me! I had an opportunity a couple weeks ago that reminded me of your class…so much so to theContinue reading “Testimonial #2”

Ideas for Projects

I’ll post ideas here whenever I find them. Everything is open for inquiry, iteration, and implementation. Keep in mind: The United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals NASA is looking for ways to clean up space junk. Philly Parking Day Designing for social impact…and fun. Can We Stop Food Waste? Why are thingsContinue reading “Ideas for Projects”

Some Links and Resources as Background

Documents NOVA Lab Newsletter 1st Edition 2020: this is the introductory packet that I e-mailed to all parents of students a week or so before class started. It lays out the philosophical and pedagogical rationale for the class as well as sets a timeline for the work we will do together. If you are interestedContinue reading “Some Links and Resources as Background”

What Might the Class be Like in Practice?

No doubt you’d like to know how this class works and why it’s necessary. For that I offer this website: Startedupinnovation This is the website of a teacher from Indiana, Don Wettrick. I’ve followed him for several years, skyped with him numerous times, and used Skype to bring him and his students into my classroom. Continue reading “What Might the Class be Like in Practice?”

Design Thinking for College Admissions

I received the letter below from one of the counselors at my HS today. As a recap, I piloted a Design Thinking and Open Source Learning class last year for 13 students. For several reasons it didn’t fill up enough this year, but with the endorsement below, I’m hoping to be off and running likeContinue reading “Design Thinking for College Admissions”