Life's path as an open-ended challenge | John Heffernan | TEDxDeerfield

04 Sep 2024 (11 days ago)

John Heffernan's Career Journey

John Heffernan developed an interest in building and deconstructing objects as a young child, leading him to study electrical engineering.
Initially worked as a contractor at RCA in Burlington, earned a scholarship for a master's degree in computer science and electrical engineering, and managed a VAX computer.
After five years, transitioned to Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) to work on early networking devices.
Realized that a career does not have to follow a straight path and began exploring other interests, including running and juggling.
Developed a passion for teaching children juggling, leading to a career change from engineering to elementary teaching despite societal expectations and financial risks.
Taught third grade for ten years in Amherst, Massachusetts, experiencing many fulfilling moments but eventually felt the need for change.
Transitioned to a tech training role for teachers, combining tech background with teaching, and later returned to classroom teaching as a pre-K to sixth-grade tech teacher.
Focused on teaching coding and engineering, creating open-ended challenges for students, and witnessing their innovative solutions.
Designed a K-6 robotics curriculum, gained recognition from LEGO Education, and was invited to Denmark to help design curriculum.
Pursued a PhD in his 50s to better understand educational factors.

William Perkins wrote A Treatise of vocations in 1605, arguing that God has a specific life plan for every person.
Dan Foley, a juggler and Boston Duck Boat driver, discovered his passion for entertaining at age six during a Christmas pageant.
It is important to consider equity issues when discussing life paths, as not everyone has equal opportunities.
Following one's passions is not always easy and can involve challenges.
According to student Sammy, education should encourage individuals to pursue their dreams and create what they envision.

A study on second and sixth grade students found that age and gender did not affect their ability to realize design ideas, but their knowledge of the Engineering Process and Legos did.
When COVID-19 forced schools to go remote, a music teacher and a technology teacher paired up to teach a week-long unit on designing musical instruments to play "Hot Cross Buns".
Undergraduate students in a digital apps and education class were asked to use Legos to represent one thing that stood out to them from the course.