At iLEAD Online, we believe that learning should be an opportunity for students to apply their unique skills and interests, making school anything but boring. For iLEAD Online’s World History course, facilitator Tom Dyer created an inspiring project called “Awakening Humanity: The Journey of Civilization.” This project challenged learners to create a replica of an ancient tool or artifact and explore its significance in shaping human survival, societal organization, and cultural expression. Mr. Dyer gave learners full creative license, asking them to choose an artifact that fascinated them, use any materials they loved, and document their journey in a process journal. Then, as always, we observed how adventurous learners become when given the freedom to follow their curiosity and apply their talents to their academic endeavors.
For his project, learner Makaio T. was intrigued by the Acheulean tool, a prehistoric hand-axe used by early humans hundreds of thousands of years ago. As Makaio explains in his process video, these multipurpose tools were a major evolutionary leap, used for everything from cutting plants and preparing meat to digging and processing hides.
Rather than using traditional stone, Makaio brought a creative twist to the assignment by digitally designing the tool and bringing it to life with a 3D printer. This not only demonstrated his understanding of the historical objective but also highlighted his impressive tech skills. He noted that one of his biggest challenges was trying to accurately create the tool’s intricate grooves in 3D software, a process he found “much harder than simply chipping away at rock.”
But Makaio didn’t stop there. He took his project a step further by testing his 3D-printed creation in a real-world application. In his yard, he tested the tool’s effectiveness for digging up weeds and found it worked much better than he expected. He even put its digging ability to the test against a regular rock and a modern shovel. He then successfully used the tool’s sharp edge to cut off a small branch and make progress on a much thicker one.
Makaio’s mother, Florentina, shared the pride in her son’s work and his hands-on approach to learning, stating, “We are proud of Makaio’s hard work. He was just really having fun. He likes to investigate things, so he was in his element. He has a 3D printer and has really been using it for many different projects. When the assignment asked him to make the cutting stone, he right away thought he could make it. We are happy to see his work being appreciated by his teachers and school.”
Makaio’s innovative thinking demonstrates the potential of iLEAD Online’s personalized approach to learning, proving that a deep dive into any subject can be an exciting hands-on adventure.
About the course:
iLEAD Online’s World History course is a hands-on, project-based learning experience that encourages learners to explore history creatively and critically. Instead of traditional tests, the course uses a Project Choice Board for each historical block. This approach allows learners to choose how they demonstrate their understanding from a variety of options, catering to different learning styles. The projects cover everything from ancient prehistory to the Age of Revolution. Learn more and enroll here!
About iLEAD Online:
iLEAD Online is a free public TK-12 school providing personalized online education with flexible schedules, allowing learners to pursue their passions like acting, athletics, and dance, alongside their studies. Founded in 2017, we emphasize individualized and project-based learning, leadership, and social-emotional growth. Learners benefit from technology, arts, and deeper learning, developing collaboration and critical thinking skills through our flexible virtual independent study model. Certified educators and college counselors offer personalized support, including guidance on college applications and financial aid. We also offer NCAA and UC a-g approved courses. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadonline.org.