Competition begins!
In July 2016, the Science Museum launched a unique hands-on, interactive gaming event called Power Up, which included a new family workshop called Game On. The workshop, now in its second year, is led by Nicolette Chin, the Special Events Developer (Families and Accessible Programmes) at the Science Museum.
Game On uses Makey Makey, an invention kit that turns everyday objects into touchpads when connected to a computer, to bring cardboard gaming controllers to life. Participants build their own controllers using Makedo, child-friendly cardboard construction tools, and connect them to a computer using Makey Makey's alligator clips and circuit board.
During the workshop, families can design their own cardboard gaming controllers and play classic games like Pac Man and the bongos using their homemade creations. The aim is to create a more tactile experience to cater to visitors who have spent a lot of time in front of screens.
Workshop times are available on weekdays from 12.00-13.30 and 14.30-16.00, and on weekends from 14.30-16.00. Places are limited, and the workshop is suitable for children aged 7 and over. Tickets can be purchased online.
Game On is located opposite the Agriculture gallery, on Floor 1, and will run at the Science Museum from 25 July to 7 August (excluding 6 August). The Learning team also offers free science shows and additional activities every day in the Museum, including workshops, storytelling sessions, drama characters, and family-friendly tours during weekends and school holidays.
[1] Makey Makey: https://www.makeymakey.com/ [2] Makedo: https://www.makedo.com/ [3] Pac Man: https://www.pacman.com/ [4] Science Museum: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/ [5] Game On Workshop: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/visitmuseum/whats-on/game-on-workshop
- Visitors can explore various aspects of lifestyle at the Science Museum's Game On workshop, where they can create their own cardboard gaming controllers, reminiscent of fashion-and-beauty DIY projects.
- After building their cardboard gaming controllers, families can indulge in food-and-drink treats from nearby cafes while playing classic games like Pac Man, bridging the gap between home-and-garden leisure and sports-themed competitions.
- In between sessions of gaming fun, travel enthusiasts can venture to the Agriculture gallery or take part in the Science Museum's free science shows and activities, catering to diverse interests from sports and food-and-drink to home-and-garden learning experiences.
