As students shape projects of their own imagining, they focus on problem-solving through the design cycle that includes inquiry and analysis, idea development, creation and prototyping, and evaluation.

Design thinking begins with empathy, asking students to inquire about the needs, experiences, and challenges of others. At Dwight, students tap into the design thinking process as they devise innovative solutions to practical problems across disciplines, ranging from digital game development and product design to robotics, programming, and architecture.

Students who want to take their projects beyond our Makerspaces – or launch new ones – can dive into Spark Tank, our incubator. This signature Dwight program builds on the design cycle, equipping students with entrepreneurial, innovation, and leadership skills that extend beyond the classroom. To find out more, watch the videos below.

MAKERSPACES FOR ALL

Wonder Lab
Students in grades 1-5 have access to the Wonder Lab, a dynamic, creative space where they design, invent, and engineer using both digital and hands-on tools. From 3D laser-cut postcards and hybrid animal sculptures in wood, to 3D modeling, ancient architecture builds, bookbinding, and stop-motion animation, the Wonder Lab brings imagination to life through meaningful, project-based learning.

Invention Studio
The Invention Studio is where grade 6-8 students engage in the design cycle and engineering process using 3D printers, sewing and embroidery machines, woodworking tools, a vinyl cutter, large format laser cutters, and a 1:1 robotics library. The Studio also provides an environment for the introduction to the design cycle as students work on projects such as creative coding and game design, sound engineering, assistive technologies, IoT (Internet of Things), machine learning, and engineering.

Spark Lab
Spark Lab is a makerspace designed for students in grades 9-12, equipped with 3D printing and additive manufacturing machines, vinyl and laser cutters, a robotics library, woodworking tools, and materials that allow students to produce both low- and high-fidelity prototypes. It provides opportunities for students to explore their passions in a creative and innovative way.

Spark Lab supports learning in our Middle Years Program (Grade 6-10), where students learn how to analyze design problems, develop feasible solutions, and test models and prototypes. It also supports the Upper Years Program (Grade 11-12) where students are guided through topics such as:

• • Human factors and ergonomics
  • Resource management and sustainable production
  • Modeling
  • Raw material to final product
  • Innovation and design
  • Classic design
  • User-centered design (UCD)
  • Sustainability
  • Innovation and markets
  • Commercial production