Cost of band-aid applied: approximately $0.05.
Value of supervised learning about tools and mechanisms: priceless!

In partnership with MAGIC (Mid-Atlantic Girls Collaborative), Nova Labs held Takeapart II last Saturday.  Around a dozen girls (and a few boys) arrived in our brand-new large classroom to take apart electronic equipment.  After being assured the equipment was already broken and they wouldn’t be able to do any additional damage to it, they dove in with enthusiasm.  They were able to see how a variety of computers, scanners, security cameras, and an old office copier worked in the process of reducing them to a pile of plastic, metal, and electronic parts.  Many different types of screwdrivers were used.

Most had never really thought about the workings of the appliances and machines we surround ourselves with.  More than one parent was heard cautiously talking about asking permission before taking apart things at home.

Most technologists tell similar stories of growing up taking apart appliances or cars (working or not), and this being the foundation for their current vocation.  This was an attempt to provide some more experiences for the kids who normally wouldn’t be exposed to such things.

Thanks to Barb, Jennyfer, and Lee for helping supervise and answer questions along the way.  We would like to thank HL Contracting and our friends at FredHack for some of the donated equipment.

Also see more pictures for this event at the Nova Labs Flickr feed here.