Tinkering Fundamentals: Motion and Mechanisms

Karen Wilkinson has established herself as a transformative figure in museum education through her role as Director of The Tinkering Studio at San Francisco's Exploratorium. Her innovative approach to learning combines playful experimentation with hands-on discovery, fundamentally shaped by constructionist principles and studio thinking methodology. With over two decades of experience in museum education, Wilkinson's expertise spans both education and technology sectors. Her most significant contribution to the field is co-authoring "The Art of Tinkering" with Mike Petrich, a comprehensive work that showcases the creative endeavors of makers and tinkerers who work at the intersection of art, science, and technology within the museum's walls. The book, which emerged from her practical experience at the Tinkering Studio, serves as a foundation for educational courses and demonstrates her commitment to fostering an environment where learning occurs through active engagement and creative exploration. Her leadership has helped establish the Tinkering Studio as a premier space for experimental learning, where visitors can engage with scientific phenomena through hands-on experiences and collaborative projects