The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in the innovative and practical field of soft robotics, empowering them to design and create a functional soft "finger" prototype. Through project-based learning, students collaborate, applying interdisciplinary knowledge from engineering, math, and science to explore and solve real-world challenges that soft robotics presents. This experience aims to deepen students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills while investigating how soft robotics can enhance human life, particularly in therapeutic and industrial contexts. This project fosters a deeper understanding of how technology can be optimized for different environments, preparing students for future applications beyond the classroom.

Students will explore the principles and applications of soft robotics, understanding their importance in real-world scenarios and how they differ from traditional robotic systems. They will engage in planning and constructing soft robotic "fingers," utilizing critical thinking to address constraints and optimize designs for specific tasks. Collaborative work in small teams will enhance students' abilities to communicate and make decisions collectively, drawing connections between engineering, math, and science throughout the project. Through the creation, testing, and revision process, students will reflect on their learning journey and prepare for the final assessment and exhibition involving a prosthetic company and a doctor.

Students will collaboratively design and construct a functional soft robotic finger using silicone, fabric, and a 3D-printed mold. Throughout the project, students will iterate on their designs based on peer feedback and practical testing. Upon completion, each team will present their final product in a showcase attended by a prosthetic company and doctor, where their soft robotic fingers must perform a specific task to demonstrate functionality and innovation. This experiential process promotes ongoing refinement and understanding of soft robotics applications.

Kick off the project with a screening of select scenes from "Big Hero Six," focusing on Baymax and his capabilities in soft robotics. Encourage students to brainstorm applications of soft robotics and reflect on these examples as they relate to engineering, math, and science concepts. Use this as a springboard to delve into the essential questions, prompting students to consider how they can leverage these technologies to solve real-world problems.

Students will present their soft robotic fingers in a dynamic exhibition attended by a prosthetic company and a doctor. During the exhibition, students will showcase their creations by demonstrating their finished fingers' ability to perform specific tasks, highlighting the practical applications of soft robotics. Students will also engage in discussions with the guests about their design process, reflecting on what they learned and how they applied engineering, math, and science principles. This interaction will provide insightful feedback and real-world relevance to their work, culminating in a vibrant celebration of their achievements and the potential impact of their innovations.