Grade 6 Mandarin students at Park recently embarked on an immersive learning experience, blending cultural education with modern technology in the school’s Maker Space. As part of their study of Chinese culture and language, students created personalized name stamps—a nod to the ancient art of Chinese seal carving—using cutting-edge laser technology.
The journey began with a lesson on the historical and cultural significance of name stamps in Chinese tradition. For thousands of years, these seals have served as personal signatures on artwork, important documents, and correspondence. The students delved into the history of this art form, learning how name stamps are intricately linked to identity and self-expression in Chinese culture.
Armed with this knowledge, each student designed their own name stamp using Chinese characters. They carefully crafted their names with attention to proper stroke order, meaning, and aesthetics, guided by their Mandarin teacher. This stage of the project not only reinforced their language skills but also deepened their appreciation for the artistry of Chinese calligraphy.
The creative process continued in the Maker Space, where students translated their designs from paper to reality. Under the guidance of Maker Space teacher Mr. Williams, the students digitized their handwritten or sketched designs and prepared them for laser cutting. They learned to use the laser printer—a modern tool capable of replicating the detailed work of traditional carving—to engrave their designs onto small rubber blocks. Along the way, they gained hands-on experience with engraving settings and safe machine operation, broadening their technological skills.
The culmination of their efforts was a set of beautifully crafted, personalized stamps. Each student took pride in their unique creation, which serves as both a functional item and a keepsake of their Mandarin language journey. These stamps not only symbolize their names in Chinese characters but also their engagement with cultural heritage through innovative methods.
Students were also encouraged to experiment with different design techniques, allowing them to compare various styles and effects during the process. This experimentation fostered creativity and offered insights into how subtle changes in design can influence the overall aesthetic. Additionally, the project sparked discussions about the value of craftsmanship, as students reflected on the precision and effort required in both traditional and modern methods of seal creation.
In addition to the hands-on work, students reflected on how technology can preserve and adapt traditional art forms. They discussed the balance between maintaining authenticity and embracing innovation, fostering thoughtful conversations about cultural sustainability. The project also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary learning, as it bridged the gap between linguistic study, artistic expression, and technological proficiency.
This interdisciplinary project seamlessly wove together culture, language, and technology, leaving an indelible mark on the students’ educational experience. By connecting the ancient art of seal carving with the modern tools of the Maker Space, the Grade 6 Mandarin class demonstrated how tradition and innovation can coexist to create something truly meaningful.
