EU project for primary schools making Automata for transversal key competencies

The European union funded CLOHE education project http://www.clohe-movingtoys.eu/ is an innovative project that is using mechanical moving toys (Automata) as a tool for primary student’s learning across a range of transversal key competences.

Mechanical moving toys (Automata) are a great way to introduce engineering, arts, sculpture, mechanics and science, by combining play and technology.  If we want children to understand the importance of technology and engineering then mechanical toys are an ideal way to introduce the concepts. But mechanical toys go further as they have always fascinated children as they combine the elements of creative play with the unexplained magic of their movement.

The CLOHE project outcomes will show teachers and students how to design and build their own Automata. The project will produce detailed teacher guides, videos, workshops, documentation, methodologies and an online virtual museum were students will be able to show their results to their peers.

See the CLOHE Automata Museum (over 100 videos showing how Automata work) https://www.youtube.com/user/CLOHE2012/featured