We are the Future, We are the Now!

During Collab time, we do three things that are completely foreign to young people at least outside of iFp: no screens (computers or phones), working with hands (making, building) and figuring stuff out collectively. Interestingly, during this time our most creative work is produced.

A few months ago while brainstorming for a future project, we developed the theme “We are the Future, We are the Now.” This Summer during Collab time we decided to push the theme a little farther. Ideas are still percolating, but it feels like we are on to something interesting. Read below to learn about our Summer of 2022.

By the end of our 6 hour days, students are worn out. However, after a night’s rest they are recharged and excited for the next day. If we had the will, their excitement for the next school day could be the same. Our five week Summer program is packed with field-trips, studios and collab time.

Field-Trips

We toured Kendall, hung out at the MIT Museum, talked 2 Blocks with Google, and listened to Gladys Night with IDEO.

Studios

Studios are where we get stuff done! This year we worked on four projects simultaneously: Genius, 2 Blocks, Uncover and We are the Future.

Collab Time

During Collab time, there are no screens (computers or phones), working with hands (making, building) and figuring stuff out together. The process is filled with ambiguity (does this make sense) and uneasiness (not knowing what to do next), however the results are amazing.

It’s extremely challenging to trust the process, however through constant feedback and iteration we land in a good place. Introducing “Cheese, Queen Eliza-bird, I wish I was a cup and Debra the bird.”

Design Review

Nothing like a deadline to dial-up the intensity. The studio was buzzing on Monday and Tuesday before our final design review. With so many projects to showcase, we added a demo floor for this first time ever. To our pleasure it was packed.