Last term in the STEAM programme, we did a course called ETPT, which stands for E-textiles and Papertronics. ETPT combines art and technology in an interdependent way. It includes a mix of projects such as Paper circuits, Makey Makey instruments, and Microbit Create AI.
In Papertronics/circuits, we learnt how to make simple circuits using copper tape, LED, and coin cell batteries, then used them to create interactive paper designs.
We learnt about how to use ‘Makey Makey’ circuits, which let us turn everyday objects, such as bananas or foil, into keys/buttons, or even musical instruments. We took inspiration from Disney’s classic ‘The Little Mermaid’ movie and made an interactive project where sea animals trigger music when touched. For example, we connected the clams and octopus to Makey Makey and programmed through Scratch to play parts of the music.
We also used Microbit Create AI, which allowed us to explore Artificial Intelligence through movement and machine learning. It worked by recognising patterns in the movement data we collected and then used those patterns to control the Microbit’s behaviour.
By Ayesha Rustam
Main image: The STEAM banner created by Y10 student Lily Maurice, who used digital tools as inspiration and then drew the design on an online art programme.