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Making has become a hot topic, not just in 4-H but in all of education. More 4-H programs are planning to host Maker Camps this summer than ever before. I am so thrilled to see youth across the country involved in the Maker Movement, however, my fear is that some of us are missing the point.
Some of us are jumping on the bandwagon because we were told to, or it’s what everyone else is doing. When this happens, in many cases I see youth following instructions, recipes and patterns—building what the manual says to build—this is not bad, it’s a good start but it is not making. Anyone can follow instructions and make something, but that doesn’t mean they are learning. So, what makes ‘making’ meaningful? This picture is of a farmer who brought his family to one of my 4-H Maker Nite activities, it's a wonderful example of never being too set in your ways to learn and try something new. People who see stories like this always ask me, "I see all the interesting things you do at work on your Instagram, but what is your actual job?" I usually respond with my elevator speech, "I'm an Extension Agent, I organize leadership and science experiences for ambitious people."
Most of what I do at work is quite different than what others in my position do. Some have wondered how I get away with it. It's certainly not a secret. In this blog post I will share exactly how I innovate inside the primitive environment that is Extension. No 4-H educator strives for mediocrity. But all too often, successful proposals lead to grant funding and an increase membership. This is great! But beware of growth, it sweeps in and sets in motion a downward spiral toward mediocrity.
This is one of my all-time favorite talks by Seth Godin. Everything he teaches really resonates with me. This keynote is from the World Maker Faire in 2012. If you haven't been to a Maker Faire, I'd encourage you to figure out a way to attend the Bay Area Maker Faire this year from May 20-22 in San Mateo, CA. Being at a Maker Faire is like time traveling into the future. I will be there, I'd be happy to show you around. Tweet me if you want to go!
Here is the video of Seth's talk and my notes on all his talking points: |
Paul Hill, Ph.D.I design, plan, and evaluate economic development programs for Utah State University. Archives
September 2022
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