Jon Edstrom

Edstron’s innovative teaching idea, “Awakening the Innovator Within,” creates a new kind of class, rooted in economics, but focused on unlocking the intrinsic innovation within. Students will study the innovators of the past and compare them to those of today. They will discover the traits that innovators share and begin to develop these in themselves. Innovation has been the driving force of the United States’ economic success for almost two hundred years. Through this project, it will be clear that innovation extends beyond manufacturing and can be taught across curricula. Students will apply math concepts and use collaborative problem solving. Hands-on, project-based learning will be vital parts of the students' journey. Exposure to new technology, such as 3D printing, will also help students develop their own ideas and innovate.