Dawson Students Challenged To Design Renewable Energy Playground; Winning Design To Be Built On Campus In 2015
LAFAYETTE, Colo., Nov. 19, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Dawson School, the region's premier K-12 independent school, has initiated The Renewable Energy Playground Design Challenge, giving Dawson students the opportunity to design an interactive play structure that uses solar, wind, and human energy to teach about and generate electricity. The winning design will be built on Dawson's campus in 2015.
The contest specifies that K-12 students be able to interact with the playground to learn about electricity generation. Examples include monitors that measure energy output, special attachments to make the wind and solar components movable, and playground-like structures that allow users to make energy themselves.
According to Upper School Director Jason Mundy, "Dawson educators offer student-driven learning and experiential education that equips students to meet real-world challenges. This Design Challenge is a clear example of what makes a Dawson education special."
Students submit drawings and description sufficient to build the design. A 3D computer model and detailed parts list are recommended, and the design must cost $9,000 or less to build. Design Challenge funding is provided by the Dawson Parent Association's Mini/Mega Grant Program, which funds educational opportunities and enhancements initiated by faculty and staff, ranging from $500-$2,000 Mini Grants, to an annual $10,000 Mega Grant.
Dawson physics and engineering teacher Erik Nickerson developed the Challenge. "Education doesn't get more hands-on: This is an excellent example of the interdisciplinary learning we offer. We are grateful to the Dawson Parent Association for making this possible."
Winston Berry, 2014-15 Dawson Parent Association president: "The DPA is completely thrilled to see the Design Challenge come to life. The Dawson faculty and student body never cease to amaze us with their ingenuity and desire to make the Dawson community and the world a better place."
Faculty and experts will judge designs, due in December. The plan is for the winning design to be built on campus in 2015, with the name(s) of the designer(s) permanently engraved on the installation. The contest is optional and open to all Dawson students.
Dawson School, located in Lafayette, Colorado, is the region's premier K-12 independent school. With a 45-year track record of success, students enjoy challenging college-preparatory academics, individual attention, exceptional faculty, robust athletics and arts programs, and renowned outdoor and experiential education. www.dawsonschool.org/
CONTACT: Sarah Amirani
O: 303-665-6679 x472
C: 303-525-7451
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20141119/159693
SOURCE Dawson School
Share this article