Automata: Moving toys in the classroom

The European union funded CLOHE education project is an innovative project that is using mechanical moving toys (Automata) as a tool to enhance 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.

All the project resources will be piloted in schools across Europe and the final versions will be available for use from the project website.

What are Automata?

Automata are mechanical moving toys. An Automata combines engineering, cultural and artistic expression. Automata are “story telling mechanical sculptures”.

An automata‘s motion is usually created by mechanical tools like cams, cogs, gears and handles but some use batteries or solar energy.  Often the lower or inner part of the toy includes the mechanical parts and the upper part is the ‘toy that moves’ as a result of the mechanical parts. 

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

Building an Automata

The project has a very clear idea how teachers can use the project and make Automata in their classes through a step by step process:

    Creating and defining the character, derived from a story and available materials

    Designing the automata

    Building the automata

    Assembling and testing the automata

    Getting feedback from the test and adjusting

Finally, using the automata within the original story. 

About the project

The project is a 2 year Comenius project targeted at primary school children. The partnership  that are building the project come from universities, NGOs, SMEs, Schools and a specialist museum from across Europe.

Time-table for the Project

The project team are currently developing the initial materials for the project that will enable teachers across Europe to replicate and use the project. The very first piloting of the project is taking place in Germany and Italy.

Find out more about the CLOHE project and how you can get involved by contacting:

• Joel Josephson
• Partner
• joel.josephson@joel-josephson.org

Website: http://www.clohe-movingtoys.eu