SparkleLAB Design & Innovation Hub
Oct. 2012 - Jan. 2019Manila, PhilippinesCreated and launched SparkleLab, a research and development space that re-imagines learning to enhance student engagement, achievement, and success through effective program design, content creation and innovation. <br><br>Championed a culture focused around driving impactful change and dynamic solutions by providing leadership, support, and guidance to diverse multidisciplinary teams.<br><br>Developed a unique pedagogy founded on the principles of play, learning by doing, interest driven education, critical making, and child-centered design through constant experimentation and lab-based R&D. <br><br>Worked with children and youth to co-design and co-develop programs in five main areas: (1) experience architecture, game development, and coding; (2) toy making, digital fabrication, engineering, and materials science; (3) soft circuits, e-textiles, and wearable technology; (4) robotics, electronics, and the internet of things; and (5) animation, filmmaking, and storytelling. <br><br>Launched a suite of 30 afterschool programs and summer camps that support inquiry, collaboration, peer-to-peer learning and STEAM education. <br><br>Provided students with opportunities to solve complex 21st century problems by applying systems thinking, human-centered design, critical making and engaging in communities of practice. <br><br>Formed and fostered an open makerspace for kids and teens in an effort to promote child directed, project-based learning. <br><br>Created feedback loops with children and families that informed program development and iteration. <br><br>Cultivated and supported dedicated teams of educators, content experts, designers, and technologists by providing opportunities for knowledge sharing and continuous professional development. <br><br>Coached teams of educators to deliver programs utilizing SparkleLab’s gamified curriculum, kits, and digital content, achieving a re-enrollment rate of 85% and a net promoter score of 90%.