The Making of the Modern Teen

The graduating seniors of HTHMA presented a compelling and provocative interactive art exhibition on the current state of social, cultural, technological and ideological constructs emerging in today’s modern teenagers. Fifty students presented short talks and interactive art experiences on topics ranging from bullying, depression, education, media addiction, feminism, sports injuries, the judicial system and many more contemporary issues. All of these projects were uniquely authentic as the sources of inspiration came directly from the teenagers living these realities every day. Through their rigorous research, personal experiences, artistic renderings and computer programming design, these 50 teenagers provoked their peers and adults to reconsider their notions of the challenges, habits, practices, and rich cultural experiences that impact the leaders of tomorrow today.

Teacher Reflections:

We felt it essential to design and facilitate educational opportunities where students can try, take risks, make changes to their work, and adapt as they go forward. This process is critical to their growth as students and as people. The outcome of this work was extraordinary. Working in this type of interdisciplinary, collaborative environment with the students leading their research interests and directing their projects’ development really demonstrated to us the importance and educational merits of honoring student voice and choice.

Student Reflections:

I learned how to synthesize ideas, think logically and analyze research. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect when I started learning programming or had to figure out a way for mature audiences to understand what I was trying to convey through both my research paper and interactive program. But, I found my way through these challenges and to see myself overcome and flourish was pretty amazing.

—Angie To learn more visit https://nobleeducator.com/the-making-of-the-modern-teen