An Atal Tinkering Lab is a big initiative by NITI Aayog and Atal Innovation Mission where students are introduced to the world of STEM education. 10,000 schools having ATLs are already experiencing the magic of hands-on learning. These new learning techniques emphasize ‘learning by doing’.
To make an Atal Tinkering Lab successful, every person needs to contribute to it. Be it ATL mentors or school faculty members, all need to put in the effort. The most important person is an Atal Tinkering Lab In-Charge. Every school must hire 1 ATL in-charge to look after the lab and manage the activities. The question is, how to select the best ATL in-charge for your school? Let’s learn everything in a step-by-step manner.
Roles of Atal Tinkering Lab In-Charge
1. Lab Setup & Maintenance
The Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge ensures the lab is well-organized, clean, and all equipment is in working condition. They oversee inventory, maintain tools, and coordinate with vendors for repairs or upgrades.
2. Project Planning & Student Engagement
They plan regular tinkering activities, innovation challenges, and hands-on projects aligned with STEM goals. The ATL in-charge encourages students to participate in events like the ATL Marathon, creating an innovation-friendly environment.
3. Training & Mentoring Students
The Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge plays the role of a mentor—guiding students on tool usage, idea development, and prototyping. They foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
4. Documentation & Reporting
They are responsible for maintaining proper records of ATL activities, student attendance, and project progress. The ATL in-charge also ensures the timely submission of reports to the school and Atal Innovation Mission.
5. Coordinating with Principal, Vendors, and Mentors
The Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge acts as a bridge between the school leadership, mentors of change, vendors, and the ATL community. They ensure smooth coordination and collaboration for successful lab operations.
6. ATL Calendar Management
They design and follow an annual ATL calendar that includes activity sessions, workshops, competitions, and assessment timelines. This helps in structured learning and time-bound innovation.
7. Ensuring Safety & Discipline
The ATL in-charge ensures that safety guidelines are followed during lab activities. They educate students on the safe handling of tools and create a responsible working culture in the lab.
How to Select the Atal Tinkering Lab In-Charge
1. Eligibility Criteria
The in-charge should preferably be a full-time STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) teacher at the school. They must be comfortable handling tools, basic electronics, and computers. Their existing subject knowledge forms the foundation for effective ATL facilitation.
2. Interest in Innovation and Tinkering
Apart from technical skills, the in-charge should be curious, creative, and genuinely interested in fostering innovation among students. Someone who enjoys DIY projects encourages questioning, and believes in hands-on learning makes a great in-charge.
3. Leadership and Communication Skills
The Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge is not just a coordinator but a leader. They will guide students, manage lab schedules, and ensure resources are used effectively. Strong communication skills, team management, and the ability to mentor students are must-haves.
4. Approval Process
Once potential candidates are shortlisted, the school principal or the ATL committee reviews their profiles. The final appointment of the in-charge is done after evaluating their teaching history, attitude toward innovation, and commitment to the ATL program.
How to Train the Atal Tinkering Lab In-Charge
1. Attend AIM’s Orientation and Workshops
The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) regularly organizes orientation sessions for newly appointed ATL in-charges. These workshops help them understand ATL goals, equipment usage, reporting systems, and project-based learning techniques.
2. Hands-on Training from ATL Vendors
ATL vendors who supply ATL packages, tools, and kits to schools often provide demo sessions. These hands-on workshops are crucial in helping the Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge understand the technical functionalities of equipment and how to use them in student activities.
3. Peer Learning and Networking
Being part of ATL communities on platforms like ATL TinkerHub, LinkedIn, or WhatsApp groups allows ATL in-charges to exchange ideas, share challenges, and learn from other schools. This peer network keeps them updated and inspired.
4. Free Online Courses and Resources
Various online platforms offer free courses on Arduino, robotics, 3D printing, AI, and innovation. The ATL in-charge can enroll in these to stay ahead and bring the latest knowledge into their lab practices.
5. ATALUP Can Train Your ATL In-Charge
ATALUP offers end-to-end onboarding and training support for your in-charge. From tool familiarization to project planning and reporting, ATALUP ensures the in-charge is well-prepared to run the lab efficiently and inspire student innovation.
6. Continuous Upskilling through Webinars and Events
The ATL in-charge should regularly attend innovation fairs, boot camps, government-hosted webinars, and ATALUP webinars. These events expose them to real-world problem solving, student showcase ideas, and evolving STEM practices.
How Can ATALUP Help?
ATALUP is an organization that not only helps schools get the ATL grant but also helps schools make their ATLs successful. It involves the training of the Atal Tinkering Lab in-charge, supporting them to conduct better activities and help students learn faster.
We Can Help You Hire and Train