The non-profit organization JOBLINGE supports young people who have difficulties entering the labour market. One of their initiatives is hosting workshops to spark interest and ambition in different fields. Together with the pedagogical team, we developed a set of mobile walls that turn software commands into visual output. Combined with tactile modification possibilities, abstract code becomes tangible and fun to play with, and can be used a tool for all kind of creative endeavours like fashion shows, concerts or interactive games.
Double hackable
low barriers, high outcome
JOBLINGE recently opened a new location in central Frankfurt: At the basecamp, participants can take part in workshops, seminars and tutoring programs to acquire new skills. In addition to technical know-how, the basecamp focuses on skills such as creativity, personal responsibility and agile learning methods. With different educational formats, individual talents and interests are fostered and new opportunities explored. We were more than happy to contribute to this cause and provide the infrastructure for conducting meaningful workshops in the field of craftwork and creative coding.
To make learning fun and intuitive, we came up with a concept that is hackable in two ways: Firstly, code can be changed to create different visual outputs. Secondly, it can be me modified by adding folded diffusors to create a range of looks and moods.
The set-up consists of individual units that can be combined and arranged as a modular system – as one large wall in a workshop or as three smaller units for individual work. We based the size on existing room dividers to allow a mix and match with the office furniture elements on site. Fitted with wheels, they can be moved around easily to create different special scenarios as needed.
The centerpiece of the units are panels of 16 x 16 LEDs that can be controlled individually. This low-res grid is a playing field for simple and unlimited experiments. Based on the sample code in Python, participants make first steps in the field of programming and can see the results of their work right away. In a series of lessons, simple games, colorful animations or interactive features can be created, giving them confidence in their newly achieved skills.
The centerpiece of the units are panels of 16 x 16 LEDs that can be controlled individually. This low-res grid is a playing field for simple and unlimited experiments. Based on the sample code in Python, participants make first steps in the field of programming and can see the results of their work right away. In a series of lessons, simple games, colorful animations or interactive features can be created, giving them confidence in their newly achieved skills.
A second layer of creativity can be added to the experience by integrating folded paper structures. We prepared Origami patterns to be cut and folded in workshops and attached to a grid of Velcro dots. These paper structures lend the LED panel an entirely different look and open up new artistic possibilities.
A second layer of creativity can be added to the experience by integrating folded paper structures. We prepared Origami patterns to be cut and folded in workshops and attached to a grid of Velcro dots. These paper structures lend the LED panel an entirely different look and open up new artistic possibilities.
Part of the process
collaborative work
In this project, we entered into a collaborative development process right from the start. Together with the JOBLINGE team, different approaches to interactive and participatory learning environments were sketched out. The aim was to include the participants as early on as possible and co-develop the final solution.
During the first workshop, a group of young JOBLINGE participants assembled the room dividers guided by two members of our team.
In a second workshop, we provided video tutorials on origami folding which was then executed independently by the participants.
Both times, the tasks were met with great enthusiasm and dedication.
The LED units are now installed at the basecamp and used as the tool for the first coding workshops.
Curious about our approach? Feel free to get in touch!
Sebastian Oschatz Partner +49 69 24 000 321 sebastian.oschatz@meso.design sebastian.oschatz@meso.design +49 69 24 000 321
MESO Digital Interiors GmbH
Gutleutstr. 96 . 60329 Frankfurt . Germany
Team
Bettina Braun, Theron Burger, Daniel Maaz, Laura Schillke, Timon Skerutsch, Sebastian Quader