The iNVENTIONATOR for gifted learners event is FREE to enter, thanks to a partnership with the Ministry of Education. At its heart, the programme aims to empower learners to solve real-life problems that matter to them. We want young people to PLAY. THINK. DESIGN.
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Who is it for?
Years 6–9 gifted learners.
Find out more about the characteristics of the gifted.
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What will ākonga do?
- Explore innovative mind frames through six online resources.
- Complete related wero or challenges to sharpen their skills (see benefits below).
- Bring an idea or skill set to pitch.
- Collaborate and think critically to solve an everyday problem of local relevance.
- Use the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals as a guide.
- Participate in an awesome iNVENTIONATOR experience.
- Continue to grow your team's idea beyond iNVENTIONATOR.
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What are the benefits of iNVENTIONATOR?
- Encourages future-fit skills such as: problem solving, innovation, teamwork, digital technology and fluency, design thinking and entrepreneurship.
- Focuses on problems that matter to students in their context – local or global – building healthier communities as a result.
- Participants work through six key resources leading up to an event, building confidence and capabilities before the event.
- Community-based model enables ākonga to reference their local environment and experience as part of the inquiry process.
- Whānau and local business people are involved as mentors and judges – playing both a learning and celebration role.
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Does it cost?
No, the programme is completely FREE! iNVENTIONATOR is funded by the Ministry of Education as part of the events and opportunities for gifted learners initiative.
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What do you mean by gifted?
iNVENTIONATOR supports learners to use their gifts and talents to solve problems that matter to them and build better communities. It’s about further developing potential. Read more about the characteristics of gifted learners.
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How many learners can participate?
Up to six ākonga per year group per school.
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How much time is involved?
In the lead up to the event learners will have six online resources and wero (challenges) to work through. Each resource will take 1–2 hours to complete.
The time frame to complete these resources can be adjusted depending on learner ability and time before the event. One suggestion is to complete one resource per day or each week if you have a longer lead in time to the event.
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Who receives the online resources?
Learners will receive login information (via email) to access the resources through the iNVENTIONATOR portal. Teachers, family and whānau can support students, helping them work through the resources and complete the wero.
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Do students need to have an idea before the event?
Learners will bring an idea, but their idea doesn’t need to be fully developed and may change once they join a team.
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When will the learners be put in teams to work?
During the virtual/in-person event, learners will work in teams, formed around ideas or skills pitched.
The pre-event online resources can be done individually, or with teacher, whānau or peer support.
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What is the role of a teacher/whānau member during the virtual event?
To help ākonga make the most of iNVENTIONATOR you can:
- prepare a comfortable physical space for participants to work together
- ensure access to equipment needed i.e. stable wifi, devices, headphones, a large screen for groups if possible
- awhi or support students by checking in with them regularly
- support wellbeing of students and liaise with CORE facilitators if you think collaborative coaching or individual support is required.
