On Friday, Grayson led an activity during which middle school students used yardsticks, duct tape, cardboard tubes, bubble wrap, towels, and twine to create a prosthetic leg. Students divided into teams and had 60 minutes to design a prototype. They were encouraged to use the materials however they wanted, but had to consider factors such as stability, durability, shock absorption, and comfort.<\/p>\n
\u201cEngineering is not like math where there is one right answer and many wrong answers,\u201d said Grayson. \u201cIn engineering, there can be many right answers.\u201d<\/p>\n
Prior to construction, students were urged to consider a few questions. How will it connect to the knee? Will it be strong enough to hold someone\u2019s body weight? How do we ensure it\u2019s the correct length from the knee to the floor?<\/p>\n
Students used the cardboard tubing to replicate bone and provide support. Some used sponges and towels for comfort, and one team used the tape to act as skin, giving the whole prosthetic a layer of protection.<\/p>\n
\u201cBefore starting, the students considered what would be some of the key design features of the prosthetic limb, and when they were done, they reflected on the key differences between their designs and the real prostheses that cost thousands of dollars,\u201d explained Grayson.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s important for children even at that age to be a part of the engineering process, to discuss differences of opinions while designing the leg, and to compare the final designs from each team all while having fun.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-17965","news","type-news","status-publish","hentry","news_categories-stem-outreach"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
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