The pedagogy of experimentation

It's a foregone conclusion for many that geeks will inherit the earth. What is less understood, however, is the process of this inheritance.

Recently profiled in Rapid Growth Media, The Geek Group's Chris Boden offers a glimpse into the process and it begins with two robots, Jeff and Heather.

Like three of the protagonists in the Wizard of Oz, the robots are lacking one thing. In Jeff and Heather's case, it is a permanent mount. "Mounting the robots requires a small concrete project," says Boden, hopeful that  a local contractor will donate their services.

"We need a 12" x 12" x 12" reinforced concrete pad to mount the robots," Boden says. Once mounted and operational, Boden says this will be a unique learning opportunity for those interested in robotics and advanced manufacturing. "The robots cost more than a house. We're the only place in the world where someone can play with one and not get killed."

In exchange for the contractors' time, Boden says the entire process will be documented as they will shoot an instructional video on how to mount robots, which will then be part of The Geek Group's growing video network.

Once the robots are in place, other projects waiting to be finished off (and an old building on Grand Rapids' West side) will be one step closer to becoming a Mecca for innovators, explorers and entrepreneurs who prefer to learn through doing and experimentation.

To learn more about The Geek Group or to contact Boden with leads on local contractors, you can visit their website here.

Source: Chris Boden, The Geek Group
Writer: John Rumery, Innovation and Jobs News Editor