Mindsets and Skills

Mindsets

The Sycamore Mindsets are a set of dispositions and habits we believe every person needs to be effective members of society. We live them, teach them explicitly, and highlight their value in the learning process.

  • Be Adaptable

    We take on challenges, seek feedback, and embody a growth mindset.

  • Think Critically

    We make observations, ask questions, reflect, and explain our thinking.

  • Take Action

    We are self-directed problem solvers and embrace failure as a valuable learning opportunity.

  • Live Imaginatively

    We are curious, connect ideas, imagine big things, and resist conformity.

  • Collaborate

    We share our ideas, value the opinions and expertise of others, and hold each other accountable.

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Skills

The main skills we teach range from general processes to domain specific technical skills we find useful for making. Most importantly, we are continually learning and adding new skills to our tool belt.

  • Design Thinking

    Use the Design Thinking problem solving process to enhance your creativity.

  • Circuitry

    Create light and motor circuits. Learn wiring, wire stripping, soldering.

  • 3D printing

    Create a CAD using shapes and forms and working with a 3D printer.

  • Cardboard prototyping

    Use box cutters, cardboard, and adhesives to create 3D structures.

  • Art Techniques

    Visualize ideas, decorate projects using various methods and materials.

  • Drawing and Painting

    Sketch accurately and paint abstract, still life, and portraits.

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