Upperclassman guide young Hambos through AUTOCAD project

Seventh graders in Deborah Hyseni’s general music class took part in a hands-on lesson Friday morning, not from their teacher, but from their peers in Jeff Rodman’s SUNY Oswego CAD (Computer-Aided Design) class. Students gathered in the Maker Space to create pan flutes using AUTOCAD, a software system used for creating precise drawings and models.

Prior to the lesson, students learned about different types of pan flutes from around the world in music class, and how different cultures utilize the instrument. They then created flutes of their own in class using pipes and clay to bring their ideas to life. 

“Mrs. Hyseni showed us the history behind flutes and different kinds of sounds from different countries,” said Juliana Delo, a seventh grader at Chester Academy. 

“I thought it was really cool because she even brought the materials to make them in class, and then we came here and we're able to use AutoCAD. I did like using AutoCAD when we were in tech, and I thought it was really fun to use it again.”

Younger Hambos paired up with seniors, who helped bring their designs to life. Seventh graders came prepared with their designs drawn out, as mentors helped seventh graders navigate the software. 

“I just like seeing the high schoolers get a chance to collaborate with and lead the middle schoolers, because it gives them a really nice leadership role,” said Ms. Hyseni.

This lesson not only integrates music and technology but also provides older students with a valuable leadership opportunity, showing them the importance of collaboration and critical thinking.