IP Resources for Students and Educators (Part 1): EquIP HQ
The Texas Young Lawyers Association (TYLA) is aptly named the public service arm of the State Bar of Texas. During my several years on the TYLA Board, I assisted with and observed countless projects directed to help lawyers, judges, law students, and the community at large. There were a number of resources directed expressly to students and educators, such as Educating Educators (“A resource guide designed to educate teachers and administrators about their rights, responsibilities and legal obligations”), The Unconscious Truth (“A multi-media project created by TYLA to educate students and parents on the signs of alcohol poisoning and the legal and physical consequences associated with binge drinking”), and Your Rights On Campus (“A Guide for Public High School Students on Their Constitutional Rights at School”).
These projects have helped so many students across the state of Texas and beyond. Their impact made me want to create (or at least find) similar resources that focused on intellectual property issues. I would like to share one such resource: EquIP HQ. EquIP HQ is an interactive educational platform developed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in partnership with Second Avenue Learning. The screenshot below is from the landing page for EquIP HQ:
EquIP HQ serves as a dynamic hub for educators, parents, and students seeking engaging activities that ignite the inventive mindset within each individual. With a focus on intellectual property concepts, EquIP HQ empowers students to recognize the value of their ideas, build confidence in problem-solving, and develop the skills needed to tackle real-world challenges.
EquIP HQ seamlessly integrates creativity, ingenuity, and intellectual property education. These resources are interactive, teacher-approved, and carefully aligned with educational standards. Through EquIP HQ, students embark on an exciting invention journey, where they learn about patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
Key Features of EquIP HQ:
Engaging Challenges: EquIP HQ offers an array of exciting challenges that encourage students to invent, brand, and create original works. These activities are designed to spark curiosity and critical thinking, fostering a deep understanding of intellectual property concepts. The activities include informational videos, matching games, interactive projects, and more.
Teacher-Tested Lesson Plans: Educators can access free, teacher-tested, and student-friendly lesson plans. These resources are aligned with educational standards, making it easy for teachers to seamlessly integrate IP education into their curricula.
Interactive Grade-Level Activities: EquIP HQ caters to students K–12, offering interactive activities that are both fun and educational. These activities inspire creativity and help students develop valuable skills while exploring the world of intellectual property.
Standards-Informed Content: EquIP HQ's resources are meticulously designed to align with educational standards, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive and diverse intellectual property education.
Privacy Assurance: No student data is collected, ensuring a safe and secure learning environment. For detailed information, you can review the platform's privacy policy or access the Data Collection PDF.
Explore EquIP HQ Today:
Whether you are an educator looking to enrich your curriculum or a curious student eager to explore the realm of intellectual property, EquIP HQ has something to offer. Join the USPTO on this exciting educational journey that celebrates creativity, innovation, and the power of ideas. To get started, simply visit the EquIP HQ platform and dive into a world where learning meets invention.
I look forward to finding and sharing similar resources in the future. Who knows, maybe I will create IP-focused educational resources for students and teachers, as well.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/equip_hq/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/EquIP_HQ/_created/
People/Pages to Tag
Second Avenue Learning
USPTO
Hope Shimabuku (USPTO)
Tracy Brown (TYLA/State Bar of Texas)
Laura Pratt (Sprouse Shrader Smith)
Ashley Hymel (Hymel Law)
