PURPOSE OF THE PROJECT:
The purpose of this project is to increase middle school students’ awareness of environmental issues, to develop their problem-solving and computational thinking skills, and to enable them to use generative artificial intelligence tools in a conscious and meaningful way. Within the scope of the project, students will identify real-life environmental problems and develop digital solutions for these problems.

SCOPE OF THE PROJECT:
This project is conducted as part of the May 1–7 Informatics Week activities and includes the “Eco-Friendly Hackathon” event. During the event, students work in small groups to analyze environmental problems, develop solution ideas, and implement these solutions using block-based programming environments. Throughout the process, generative AI tools are used as supportive learning partners in idea generation, algorithm design, and project improvement stages.

METHODOLOGY:
The project is based on project-based learning and collaborative learning approaches. The process consists of the following stages:

Problem Identification:
Students select an environmental issue such as waste management, energy saving, water conservation, or forest protection.
AI-Supported Idea Generation:
Students use generative AI tools to develop solution ideas for the selected environmental problem. In this process, AI is positioned as a cognitive partner rather than a direct solution provider.
Algorithm Design:
Students structure their solutions into algorithmic components such as purpose, character, rules, and feedback.
Coding Process:
Students develop their projects using block-based programming tools such as Scratch and Code.org.

Presentation and Sharing:
Students present their projects and share them with other groups. In addition, projects are shared with other schools through Padlet, enabling peer feedback and interaction. Padlet link: https://padlet.com/fundaogr/eco-friendly-hackathon-4gpl5vkfsmtgf8tm

EXPECTED OUTCOMES:

Increased environmental awareness and sustainability consciousness
Development of computational thinking and problem-solving skills
Conscious use of generative AI tools
Improvement of collaboration and communication skills
Enhancement of digital content creation abilities

INNOVATIVE ASPECT:
This project presents an innovative approach by integrating generative artificial intelligence as a cognitive partner in the learning process rather than merely a tool. Additionally, adapting the hackathon model for middle school students and combining it with environmental themes enhances student motivation and supports flow experiences during learning.

EVALUATION:
Students’ projects will be evaluated based on problem-solving, creativity, technical implementation, and presentation skills. Furthermore, students’ interactions with artificial intelligence tools throughout the process will be observed to collect qualitative data on learning experiences.

CONCLUSION:
This project aims not only to teach coding skills but also to enable students to become individuals who can produce solutions to real-world problems using technology. By combining environmental awareness with digital competencies, the project offers a holistic and meaningful learning experience.

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