Educators Develop Appreciation for Woodworking, Music at the STEM Ukulele Building Workshop

Hanford High School recently hosted a STEM Ukulele Building workshop aimed to empower educators with the skills and knowledge to create a dynamic and interactive learning environment for their students.

During the five-day workshop educators received hands-on training and guidance from experienced ukulele builders: Ed Ufford (Hanford High School), David Lake (Kiona-Benton City High School) and Allen Androkites (Pennridge High School in Pennsylvania).

Educators from all over Washington state came to learn about the techniques and tools needed to assemble different components of a ukulele, including the body, neck, and fretboard. They worked in Hanford High’s woodshop utilizing electric sanders, ban saws and other woodworking equipment.

“The workshop integrates various STEM concepts such as measurements, geometry, and acoustics, providing a unique learning experience for educators,” says Hanford High’s Technology teacher, Ed Ufford. “We also taught about the history and cultural significance of the ukulele, fostering a deeper understanding of the instrument.”

Educators left the workshop with their own hand-built ukulele and a comprehensive resource guide that included lesson plans and hands-on instruction, to assist them in teaching ukulele building to their students.

“The STEM Ukulele Building workshop really aims to empower educators with the skills and knowledge to create an interactive learning environment for students,” says Ufford. “By combining the joy of music with STEM education, this initiative hopes to inspire the next generation of innovative thinkers and problem solvers.”