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From Retro to Reality: Bridging generations and cultures

7 December 2023


Project overview

The "From Retro to Reality" project is where nostalgia meets innovation and educational foundations. With a dedication to preserving memories, promoting sustainability, and fostering community engagement, this project serves as a bridge connecting generations and cultures. Students created eco-conscious games inspired by their grandparents and community elders’ cherished childhood pastimes. By infusing foundational educational principles such as literacy, mathematics, science, and art into our project, we celebrate the past and equip students for a more sustainable and interconnected future.


The "From Retro to Reality" project is where nostalgia meets innovation and educational foundations. With a dedication to preserving memories, promoting sustainability, and fostering community engagement, this project serves as a bridge connecting generations and cultures. Students created eco-conscious games inspired by their grandparents and community elders’ cherished childhood pastimes.

Dream to Reality process

REAL School project-based learning - Dream to Reality process

The project’s driving question is 

How can childhood games promote nostalgia and eco-awareness in our community?


Through heartfelt conversations with elders and the creation of hand-crafted games, we aim to bridge generational divides, celebrate cultural heritage, and instill foundational educational skills in our students.

Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it's a way of life. From sustainable materials to inclusive game designs, our project underscores the importance of sustainability in shaping a better society for future generations.


FOUNDATIONS CONNECTIONS

Literacy: Students practised historical narratives, instructional writing, and storytelling. Through engaging with biographies and historical accounts, our students gained insights into the past and honed their writing skills by creating game instructions, reflective journals, and narratives.

Mathematics: Our learners applied mathematical concepts to design and construct their games. From measurements to geometry and probability, mathematics infuses every aspect of our project with accuracy and innovation.

Science: Our students explored materials and their sustainability. Through research and experimentation, students deepened their understanding of scientific principles and their practical applications in game design, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and its resources.

Art: The children unleashed their creativity in painting, creating, and designing visually captivating games. Students breathed life into their game concepts through experimentation with colours, textures, and designs, infusing them with artistic flair and aesthetic appeal.

History: It’s the bedrock of our project, enriching students' understanding of the past and its relevance to the present. From visits to historical museums to interviews with elders, students gain firsthand insights into the cultural significance of traditional games, fostering a deeper connection to their heritage and identity.


REAL PEOPLE, REAL PLACE, REAL PRODUCTS

  • A visit to an old historical games and toys museum sparks our research journey as students collect data and delve into the rich tapestry of our cultural heritage.

  • Engaging interviews with elders reveal a treasure trove of beautiful games and toys from the past, fostering connections across generations and inspiring our students.

  • Visiting elders' homes creates unforgettable moments of connection as stories are shared, bonds are formed, and inspiration abounds.

  • The meticulous process of crafting retro games begins with sustainable materials researched and the creative process ignited.

  • The culmination of our efforts unfolds at the Expo, where amazing games are unveiled, hearts are touched, and generations come together in celebration.



The "From Retro to Reality" project showcased the transformative power of nostalgia, innovation, and educational integration. As we navigate an ever-changing world, it is essential to remember our roots, celebrate our cultural heritage, and nurture foundational educational skills. Our students are now more aware of the beauty of their elders' lives and the unimaginable stories that lie within. By embracing the past, cherishing the present, and envisioning a sustainable future, we have laid the foundation for continued growth, connection, and learning within our community.


project-based learning, student-made, sustainable retro game




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