Smithsonian's History Explorer Resources Related To "Edison Invents"

Invention at Play Homepage

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 10:43:31 GMT

Through the use of interactive games, inventors' stories, video commentaries, and toy displays, students will learn how play connects to the creative impulse that is fundamental to the work of invention, and explore the playful side of invention and the inventive side of play.

Lighting a Revolution

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 16:33:28 GMT

Explore the process of invention and compare Thomas Edison's well-known work on the electric light bulb a century ago with several modern lighting inventions with this online activity. This resource looks at the process of innovation through a sequence of five steps: preconditions, invention, promotion, competition and consequences. A guest lounge and library include two photo galleries, scripts and curator notes for the exhibition, a mystery object, technical reference and historical overviews.

Edison After Forty: The Challenge of Success

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 15:30:20 GMT

Students will learn about Thomas Edison's life in the years after he had become one of the most famous men in the world. At the age of 40, with major inventions behind him, Edison faced a new technical world, which he had helped to create, and the challenge of competing with his own success. This website takes the form of a photo exhibition and chronicles the latter half of Edison's life and career.

Treasures of American History: Creativity and Innovation

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 14:55:17 GMT

In this section of the online exhibition entitled Treasures of American History, students will learn how the creative and innovative genius of Americans has led to the reinvention of daily and business life, the redefinition of popular culture and the creation of artistic masterpieces. A Spanish version of the exhibition is available on the exhibition's homepage.