Introducing Engineering and Informatics Principles through Open Source Hardware in School Education

Publikation: Beitrag in Fachzeitschrift › Konferenzartikel › Beigetragen › Begutachtung

Beitragende

  • Maximilian Stange - , Fraunhofer-Institut für Werkzeugmaschinen und Umformtechnik (Autor:in)
  • Cäcilia Veliu - , Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft (HTW) Dresden (Autor:in)
  • Dirk Reichelt - , Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft (HTW) Dresden (Autor:in)
  • Steffen Ihlenfeldt - , Professur für Werkzeugmaschinenentwicklung und adaptive Steuerungen, Fraunhofer-Institut für Werkzeugmaschinen und Umformtechnik (Autor:in)

Abstract

Open Source Hardware (OSH) is increasingly recognized as a valuable approach in the development of scientific research equipment and as a driver of innovation across various fields. In addition to these applications, OSH also holds significant potential as an educational tool. As societies move toward more circular economic models, there is a growing need for individuals to develop a basic understanding of technology to make informed decisions about repair, remanufacturing, and reuse. However, the skills required for this are often underrepresented in formal education systems. This paper explores the use of OSH in design education, particularly in early learning contexts. We propose a workshop format that introduces schoolchildren to fundamental principles of engineering and informatics through hands-on engagement with OSH. The workshop is based on an existing open source vacuum cleaner design. Based on initial explorations at various educational events, we developed a workshop concept that addresses three key learning objectives: (a) knowledge transfer in sustainability and circularity, (b) repair literacy and device understanding, and (c) future-oriented IT skills including GitHub repositories, CAD, and 3D printing. This paper outlines the theoretical foundation, workshop design, implementation strategy, and evaluation framework for scaling this approach in formal educational settings.

Details

OriginalspracheEnglisch
Seiten (von - bis)932-937
Seitenumfang6
FachzeitschriftProcedia CIRP
Jahrgang142
PublikationsstatusVeröffentlicht - Juni 2026
Peer-Review-StatusJa

Konferenz

Titel36th CIRP Design Conference
KurztitelCIRP Design 2026
Veranstaltungsnummer36
Dauer16 - 18 März 2026
Webseite
OrtAIST Tokyo Waterfront
StadtTokyo
LandJapan

Schlagworte

Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung

ASJC Scopus Sachgebiete

Schlagwörter

  • Circular Economy Education, Open Source Hardware, STEAM Education, Sustainability Learning