TapeScape: The Intersection of Play and Learning

One of the new exhibits at the upcoming Full STEAM Ahead is the TapeScape Zone. TapeScape installations are hands-on play tunnel systems made entirely from clear packing tape. The structures are not only visually striking, but they also serve as a dynamic educational tool.

TapeScape is an innovative and engaging way to introduce children to the principles of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) education. TapeScape installations are designed to be interactive and immersive, allowing children to explore and learn through play. The process of building and navigating these tape tunnels introduces children to various STEAM concepts:

• Science: Children learn about material properties and tensile strength as they see how layers of tape can create strong, stable structures.

• Technology: The use of everyday materials like packing tape and scaffolding demonstrates how technology can transform simple items into complex installations.

• Engineering: Children engage in problem-solving and critical thinking as they navigate the tunnels, understanding the importance of design and construction.

• Art: The aesthetic aspect of TapeScape encourages creativity and artistic expression, showing how art can be integrated into scientific and technical projects.

• Mathematics: Concepts such as geometry and measurement come into play as children observe and interact with the shapes and dimensions of the tunnels.

Here are some of the many benefits of TapeScape in education

• Hands-On Learning: Children learn best when they can touch, manipulate, and experiment with materials.

• Creativity and Innovation: TapeScape encourages out-of-the-box thinking and creative problem-solving.

• Collaboration: Building TapeScape structures requires teamwork, communication, and cooperation.

• Engagement: The interactive and immersive nature of TapeScape keeps children engaged and excited about learning.

TapeScape is an example of how STEAM education can be made accessible and enjoyable for children and their families. By combining play with learning, TapeScape fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for exploration. Whether it’s understanding the science behind materials, or the engineering required to build a structure, TapeScape offers a unique and impactful educational experience. By providing a creative and collaborative learning environment, TapeScape helps to cultivate the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers.

The museum is thrilled to welcome Eric Lennartson, the visionary artist and inventor of TapeScape, to Full STEAM Ahead. Eric, renowned for his innovative TapeScape installations worldwide, collaborated closely with our dedicated team of volunteers to bring this exciting and immersive play space to life. We extend our deepest thanks to Eric and our incredible volunteers for turning this vision into reality.

The Grand Forks Children’s Museum also extends heartfelt gratitude to our community partners. We deeply appreciate the local offices of Widseth (Architects, Engineers, Scientists, and Surveyors) for their generous financial support of TapeScape at Full STEAM Ahead, and for sending teams of employees to assist with the setup. We are also thankful for the invaluable contributions from volunteers at Lowes, Opp Construction, Oxford Realty, and many dedicated local volunteers who helped bring TapeScape to life.

On behalf of the Grand Forks Children’s Museum staff, board of directors and our many volunteers, we hope you will stop by Full STEAM Ahead – October 1 through October 8 - and enjoy the wonders of TapeScape.

By Katie Mayer, Executive Director, The Grand Forks Children’s Museum