Techkwadraat

New developments – from AI to the climate transition – call for citizens who are critical thinkers, creative and technologically literate. With Techkwadraat, Waag is committed to bringing about a structural improvement in education, from primary through to secondary school.

In Amsterdam, there are significant differences in how schools teach technology education. Some pupils grow up with plenty of digital resources and inspiring education, whilst others have barely any access. This exacerbates inequality. By approaching technology not as a niche subject but as a basic skill for everyone, we can address this. As part of the multi-year Techkwadraat programme, Waag is therefore conducting participatory research into the professional development needs of schools and teachers in the field of technology education.

Accessible technology education

Techkwadraat’s aim is to make technology education accessible, inclusive and future-proof for all pupils in the city. We are working to create a sustainable local learning ecosystem, in which schools collaborate with informal learning environments such as libraries, museums and the business community. Technology education should be education in which everyone feels recognised and valued. It is the process of linking creativity, ownership, collaboration and critical thinking. By connecting technology with art, citizenship and media, children learn how technology works and how they can use it to bring ideas to life and actively shape their environment, now and in the future.

Training for teachers

Waag conducts participatory research into the professional development needs of schools and teachers regarding technology education, with the aim of developing a shared vision. Within the programme, Waag is responsible for measuring the impact, ensuring quality and evaluating the activities. In addition, Waag offers Teacher Maker Camps and Teacher Tech Camps. These are two-day training sessions in which teachers engage with technology in a creative and critical manner.