INSPIRING STEAM CREATORS
Learn coding, robotics, game design, graphic design, engineering, web design and more!
Welcome to MKR LAB, a new makerspace in Northern Westchester
MKR LAB offers science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) classes & workshops. Our goal is to give students the tools they need to unlock their creativity in designing the tech they want to see, enabling them to be creators, not mere consumers. We explore coding, robotics, engineering, physics, electricity and circuitry, graphic design, game design and much more.
All classes and workshops can be found on our calendar. MKR LAB is in the former Lewisboro Elementary School building at 79 Bouton Rd. in South Salem, NY. Find us at the left-most entrance.
Register now for Winter Session
Our new session begins Jan. 5--register now to reserve your spot! We also have several workshops and open lab during the holiday break. You'll find them on our calendar with full descriptions and links to register. Look for 3D printing workshops for elementary students and teens on Dec. 27, a fun intro to microcontrollers in our Musical Fruit workshop on Dec. 28. and an eTextiles workshop on Dec. 29. We also have a great 2-part workshop to build a customized gaming PC. And we're very excited to offer Open Lab time. This is a drop-in time to come use the makerspace for your individual projects. We'll be on hand if you need advice or supplies and we have a host of projects ready for you to select and build if you're in need of inspiration. Tap into our growing community of makers.
Student-Centered Approach
Our age and grade guidelines are just that: guidelines. As parents with 3 kids of our own, we know first-hand that kids don't all grow and mature at the same rate. We also know that interest and determination are big motivators, and so we are flexible. If you're unsure whether a class will be a good fit, contact us and we'll help you out.
Build it From Scratch
One of our goals is to unleash students' creativity. To maximize that, we like to use widely available components and open source languages whenever possible. Students learn how every single component works and how to incorporate it into projects. We give them the tools they need to build whatever they can imagine.
Engineering Design Process = Grit
We look for opportunities to engage students in the engineering design process. Students are excited to use their creativity and are invested in the outcome when they do. We emphasize iteration: testing out a design, observing what works and where we can improve, then redesign, test and repeat. This develops grit, perseverance, and the self confidence that comes with knowing you can achieve your goals.
College-Level Content
In our classes using the Raspberry Pi, microcontrollers, including Arduino, and our IOT (Internet of Things) workshops, students will be doing projects often done at colleges. We will push the limits of what can be done with microcontrollers and students who are ready can edit code to maximize functions or they can simply modify the physical design. They can code with object-oriented techniques or simply make LEDs flash. It depends on student interest and ability. We can meet students where they are. These classes are designed to complement local schools' AP Computer Science and Robotics classes. And yes, we open them up to middle schoolers too because we know they can do the work.
All Materials Provided
We have everything you'll need in class: the brand new Raspberry Pi 3 B+, microcontrollers, ultrasonic sensors, connectors, cables, motors, relays, micro SD cards, servos ... Just bring your curiosity!
ABOUT US
Clark Landis has developed derivatives trading systems for banks and other financial institutions. He has a passion for programming and pushing technical boundaries. Clark holds an MS in computer science from Columbia University, an MS in physics from Yale, and a BA in physics and math from Columbia University. Sarah Landis is the head trader of private hedge fund specializing in the volatility markets. She also is a certified yoga teacher, one-time webmaster and lifelong maker. We have 3 children together.
QUESTIONS?
Have a question or suggestion? Is there a specific class you want to see? We want to know! We're also available to bring STEAM projects to local groups. Type "mailing list" in the Question/Comment section below and we'll add you to our mailing list.