A staff member working at the Media Services counter helping students with equipment checkouts.
Unlock Creativity, Business, and Technology in Your Classroom

High School Workshops

Welcome, Educators!

The University of Waterloo Stratford School of Interaction Design and Business is excited to bring our engaging workshops to your high school classrooms.  

Developed by our faculty, and facilitated by the Stratford School Tutorial instructor, these sessions are for grades 9 through 12 and are designed to empower students with practical skills, inspire creativity, and provide insights into the world of business, technology and design.  

Why Request a Workshop for your Class?

  • Hands-On Learning: Students will dive into interactive activities, experiment with cutting-edge tools, and gain practical experience.

  • Creativity Boost: Our workshops foster imagination and innovation. From design thinking to digital art, students will explore their creative potential.

  • Business Insights: Equip your students with essential business knowledge. They’ll learn about entrepreneurship, marketing, professional communication and portfolio-making.  

What Your Class Will Gain:

  • Inspiration: Our passionate instructors will ignite curiosity and inspire students to pursue their interests.

  • Collaboration: Students will work together on projects, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.

  • University Experience: Your students will experience what its like to be in a university classroom! 

Workshops are delivered at your school, but for the most immersive experience, we are happy to accomodate you at the Stratford School! Each workshop is the length of one class (1h15m), but can be accomodated longer as needed. Workshops are tailored for grades 9 through 12.

Current Workshops

Karen Cochrane Headshot

Wearable Technologies: Custom Light-Up Sneakers

Developed by Dr. Karen Cochrane

In this project, students will create wearable sneakers that light up with each step. By using pressure sensors embedded in the soles of the shoes, LEDs will illuminate when pressure is applied. Participants will learn the basics of wearable computing and electronics by creating an interactive project. Students will explore how technology can be integrated into everyday clothing and accessories. This workshop will provide a fun introduction to electronics, programming, and design through creative DIY projects. 

Noorin Manji headshot

Constructing a Professional Identity: Communication, Portfolio and Entrepreneurship

Developed by Dr. Noorin Manji

This workshop will focus on strategies for secondary students to construct and cultivate strong professional identities. Through hands-on, interactive, and engaging activities, the session will prompt high schoolers to reflect on the professional they aspire to be and the steps they can take to enhance professional communication, build a stand-out portfolio, and even expect future entrepreneurial paths.

Will Zhao Headshot

Innovative Problem-Solving with Assumption Reversal

Developed by Dr. Will Zhao

This workshop introduces high school students to the concept of assumption reversal, a powerful technique used in business to challenge conventional thinking and drive innovation. Through interactive activities, students will learn how to identify and reverse common assumptions in everyday scenarios, encouraging them to think outside the box and develop creative solutions. This session will provide a glimpse into how innovative thinking is cultivated within the GBDA program, making it accessible and engaging for students across various subjects.

Dr. Lennart Nacke

Generative AI in the Design Process

Developed by Dr. Lennart Nacke, University of Waterloo Research Chair

Noah Pratt

The Tarot Cards of Tech

Facilitated by Noah Pratt, Digital Media Instructor

Through the Tarot Cards of Tech, students will explore the intersection of design and business. This interactive session will encourage students to think creatively about the future of technology and its impact on society. Through collaborative activities, they’ll brainstorm innovative solutions, develop business models, and present their ideas. This workshop aims to inspire students to become thoughtful leaders and innovators, equipped to shape a better future through technology and design.

The Tarot Cards of Tech are developed by Artifact Group.

How To Reserve Your Spot

Nicole Sguigna

  1. Contact Us: Reach out to Nicole Sguigna, our Recruitment and Admissions Co-ordinator, to discuss available dates and workshop options at stratfordprograms@uwaterloo.ca

  2. Customize Your Visit: Choose from our workshop themes—creativity, business, or technology—and tailor the experience to your class’s interests.

  3. Prepare for an Adventure: Get ready for an educational journey that will leave a lasting impact on your students.