Learn to see problems as opportunities for solutions!     
|
|
WHAT I TEACH Organizational Skills:
| Steps to follow in the problem solving process that are applicable to almost any circumstance.
|
Divergent Thinking: |
how to "think outside the box" to enlarge your perspective and develop original solutions.
|
Creativity:
|
Learn how to "take-it-to-the-next-level" through sequential development and application of practical skills. Build hands-on projects that demonstrate and reinforce what you learn! |
Confidence ...via... Competence: | By gaining hands-on experience and developing a trial and error "I can do this" mindset. Builds self esteem! |
Back To Top
WHY I TEACH | Problem solving is fun and exciting. I have developed a system using fun hands-on projects to explain and help understand scientific and math principles. We develop creative problem solving skills through logical thought, divergent thinking and practical application. One of my first problems to solve as a kid was how to crack the lock on my father's toolshed. Later on, it was what to do after my father discovered and pulled out all my bugging equipment in the attic. Many incidents (and "inventions") later , I wound up with an honorable discharge from the Air Force, a Degree in Electrical Engineering from Southern Methodist University, a Top Secret Security Clearance and gainful employment as a Research & Product Development Engineer. My father was relieved!
With my own son came many years (18) as an Assistant Scoutmaster, T35 Highland Park and a growing interest in sharing my "stuff" with kids. With my daughter came time in Indian Princess and the need to supplement her lifestyle as a foreign exchange and international college student. But it was my wife and friends who talked me into teaching in 1994 at RHSA (Richardson Home School Association) and now into offering my projects and ideas to a wider group of parents and kids or anyone who wants to learn. I still like toys and projects - especially inventing them and using their appeal to demonstrate scientific principles. It's exciting to see a student get turned on to the fun and joy of learning. Back To Top |

Qualifications & Other Facts about Jim McMillan, ACS/KLC
* Teaching 15+ yrs at Private Schools & Homeschool Co-Ops. * Creative Camps & Classes for students that want to learn! where Jim teaches special unique hands-on how-to-do-it methods of divergent problem solving and design skills. Jim doesn't accept 'It can't be done' until it's proven! * Most class projects are Jim's original copyrighted designs* Asst. Scoutmaster for 18 years. Troop 35, Highland Park. * Co-Started BSA Troop #125 at Northwest Bible Church. * Served on BSA Circle 10 Health & Safety Committee. * WOODBADGE #45: Scouts highest level of adult training.* Developed Patented Designs for several local companies. * Research, Design & Product Development Engr, SMU '71.* KLC, Kinetic Learning Center is a Registered US Trademark, you must have written permission to use KLC materials. * Designed, built & drove SCCA Championship winning sports car. * 36 years President of ACS Inc, a consulting company. * Designed and Built or Remodeled 5 houses for family members. Back To Top

CLASS GOALS
To teach students how to apply mathematical & scientific theory and facts to solving real life problems. A step beyond the 'ought & should' to the developing of how-to abilities needed to accomplish goals. To encourage them not to be intimidated by mistakes or failures but to see them as part of the discovery process and learning curve. Students learn to see 'problems' as opportunities for solutions or a challenge to overcome! They use divergent thinking & creative problem solving skills to find quick solutions & learn giving up isn't an option!
Back To Top
METHODS & TIMING
This school year program uses kinetic (hands-on) methods to develop critical & divergent thinking. The specially designed projects reinforce application and problem solving skills while building confidence and self esteem. I will teach a basic foundation of mechanical and electronics theory. The students will actually use power tools and soldering irons to build both mechanical, electrical and/or electronic devices. Back To Top |
THE PROJECTS The projects are fun. Most are my original, copyrighted designs, developed and/or chosen for kid appeal. These classes are about seeing problems as opportunities for solutions. With a wide range of ages (6-17) and skill levels, there are many variables. As in all classroom instruction, the students will have different degrees of success. Success is measured by what is learned, not what is made. The projects are designed to teach, apply and practice specific skills. Although I can't guarantee that a student's project will be successful, most usually are. Back To Top |
Covered Subjects | The class is a combination of math, science, physics, and engineering principles. The projects help hone those skills. Two former students were given pre-engineering credit (at A&M) for my courses. The order of subjects and projects is adjusted throughout the year, so as to challenge but not overwhelm the students. The following is what I plan to cover: (a) Mechanical theory and tool use. We will learn to safely use basic & power tools and build projects that apply and develop those skills.
(b) Electronics principals, basic theory and application. We will build several fun projects from beginner to more advanced. (c) Practical methods of design and problem solving techniques. How to plan, organize, develop and carry out an idea from the original, initial concept to an out-the-door finished product. Back To Top |
|
|