Among innovation platforms, hackathons are by far the ones gaining more ground. It all started in the early 2000s, when tech companies launched hackathons to develop new software. Deriving from the words ‘marathon’ and ‘hacking’, such a “marathon for hackers”, is a phenomenon that nowadays transcends computing but applies to every area of human knowledge.
A hackathon is more than just a timed competition – it’s an immersive transformative experience for creative changemakers. Its format calls on ingenious minds to transform bold ideas into actionable projects confined to a particular problem discussed within structured events which can last up to several days. Hackathons occur multiple times throughout the year and can take place virtually; participants choose the contests that align with their interests and skill levels, and form teams from anywhere in the world.
Whether it’s programmers developing MIL-driven solutions, designers crafting intuitive interfaces, or students cultivating good projects, to win, teams need to demonstrate scientific validation and articulate viable models to be implemented in real-world scenarios. These brainstorming sessions require not only critical thinking and problem solving, but also storytelling and building strategy.
To boost student engagement, an increasing number of schools advocate youth hackathons as an alternative to traditional teaching. When pupils step outside their regular assignments and collaborate in a dynamic environment such as a STEM hackathon, creating their own proposal documents, pitch video and presentations, it energizes their passion for learning. Tackling global problems like environmental pollution, food sustainability, or digital challenges foster students’ sense of responsibility toward their community.
Prerequisites are kept accessible in most STEM hackathons so to stimulate participation from underrepresented groups and disadvantaged backgrounds. Gender balance and inclusion are highly encouraged in these competitions, participation is what really matters!
Hackathons have also a parallel track for networking workshops where students are mentored by industry entrepreneurs and receive valuable insights for career exploration. Using sponsors as inspirational examples for promising new talents, organisers endeavour students to seek support and feel more confident in pursuing STEM pathways. In this sense, hackathons empower our next generation of STEM enthusiasts to use their technical prowess for positive change.
What you might win is not merely the first prize, attendance certificates and swags; but academic rewards, accolades and general recognition which can lead to college admission and future job opportunities within a company.
BeScience hosts exciting Hackathons in support of schools across various STEM disciplines for students to discover and deepen their passion. Get involved and embrace the adventure of BeScience STEM today!
By Margherita Brignoli.
