As we demonstrate in our recent publication "Da Vinci RELOADED: Art and Creativity in STEM Maker Projects", creativity is increasingly recognized as one of the essential future skills. It is closely linked to technological innovative strength. To make these skills tangible, so-called maker projects offer an ideal intersection to unite scientific theory and creative doing.
A classic entry-level project we developed in this context is the "Electronic Design" module. Here, learners receive the fictitious assignment to wire electronic components such as LEDs, resistors, and batteries with a limited budget (e.g., 7 euros) and integrate them into an artwork of their choice. The materials are deliberately left open – from cardboard and wood to shattered glass, anything is possible.
"Especially when we want to focus on creativity and self-directed work in maker projects, it's important that the materials used are safe and inexpensive. This is the only way to create a genuine space for errors and experimental solution paths."
Dr. Jens-Peter Knemeyer
Heidelberg University of Education
From battery to microcontroller
The next expansion stage of such concepts – as described in the "Microcontroller & Art" module – involves the use of Micro:bits or Arduinos and visual, block-based programming languages. By integrating sensors and actuators, a static light sculpture transforms into an interactive artwork that communicates with its environment.
"With sensors, the artworks react directly to the viewer. This can be an artificial cactus that measures proximity via an ultrasonic sensor and issues a warning, or an autonomously supplied Vertical Farming system staged as a living succulent picture."
Prof. Dr. Nicole Marmé
Heidelberg University of Education
The added value of these interdisciplinary concepts lies in the sustainable consolidation of knowledge: When physical or informatic content is applied far away from classic subject teaching in a self-designed, artistic context, the learning curve rises massively. Technology thus transforms from pure learning material into a tangible tool for one's own creative expression.
