Thomas Alva Edison

Preliminary Ideas

Zhang Xi (27)

08so6e

Thomas Alva Edison, the “Greatest inventor who ever lived”, has 1093 patented inventions. His greatest achievement was inventing not just an incandescent electric light but also three-wire electricity generation and distribution system that made it possible to provide the general public withвЂ" community wide вЂ" safe, stable, and efficient electricity.

Impact

пÑ"? In an electrified modern world the light bulb, in particular, profoundly changed human existence by illuminating the night and making it hospitable to a wide range of human activity.

пÑ"? Edison’s power distribution system marked the start of the modern electric utility industry and the beginning of electric age.

Purpose of my project

пÑ"? Correct common misconceptions

пÑ"? Educate Singapore students, who lack originality in scientific research, on the importance of perseverance and innovation.

пÑ"? Stimulate creativity among youths, with the inspiration of Edison, to contribute to the society

Relevance to Singapore Society

пÑ"? Significant impactпÑ" Singapore has been promoting its vibrant night life as one of its major tourist attraction. Events such as Chinese New Year Light Up will not be possible without Edison’s inventions

пÑ"? As Singapore is moving into a knowledge-based economy it is important that our future workers can be inspired by Edison and his innovative mind.

Activity planned

пÑ"? Essay competition

National-wide essay competition among primary, secondary and JC students.

Possible topicпÑ" “A world lightened by up gasoline lamps”, “without electricity”

Benefits:

Individual research ensures better understanding and appreciation

Creative-minded students may be inspired to come up with their own inventions

Feasibility:

Likely to win MOE’s support and recognition

Small budget

Tie up with English language programs in schools

пÑ"? Youth Invention Festival

Collaborate with Tan Kah Kee Young Inventors' Award (TKKYIA) to organize an Edison and Tan Kah Kee Youth Invention Festival

An Edison award is set for perseverance.

Benefits

Encourage youths to use their knowledge and skills imaginatively and with daring innovation

Promote perseverance.

Feasibility

Problems:

insufficient fund

Solutions:

Colloboration with TKKYAпÑ" help TKKYA expand their local influence

Seek sponsorship from companies related to Thomas Edison, e.g. the General Electric company, for which Edison is one of the founder, has been willing to donate funds to commemorate Edison.

Promote innovation and creativity in Singapore’s knowledge-based