5 tips to prepare for a hackathon

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5 tips to prepare for a hackathon

In November, #hack4edu, the virtual hackathon of ProFuturo and the Pontifical University of Salamanca (UPSA for its initials in Spanish) dedicated to digital education, returns. Would you like to know how to prepare for this event? Here are 5 tips!

What is a hackathon?

The word hackathon comes from the integration of two concepts: hacker and marathon. These are meetings in which different participants have to find innovative solutions to the technological challenges posed. 

Originally limited to the world of software and hardware, their success has led them to expand into any field that seeks innovation in problem-solving. The duration of these meetings is usually one to three days. In addition, the virtual format is booming due to COVID-19.

The second edition of #hack4edu will last two days, from 18 to 19 October, and will be held virtually. Their objective? Finding solutions to the challenges of today’s digital education. Do you want to know how to prepare for our international hackathon? Check out these 5 tips!

5 tips to prepare for a hackathon

  1. Preliminary research: While the challenge posed in the hackathon is unpredictable, you can research in advance the possible problems to be solved. The #hack4edu theme focuses on technological solutions to digital education challenges.
  2. Concentration: Nerves can play tricks on us in stressful situations. Remember to stay as focused as possible during the days of the event. Create an optimal atmosphere within your working group to avoid distractions.
  3. Team work: A hackathon would be meaningless without teamwork. While the individual knowledge and skills of each member are necessary, the collaborative development of solutions is essential. Moreover, shared victory is more enjoyable.
  4. Internet connection: It goes without saying that at a technology event, connection to a wi-fi network is key (but it never hurts to remember it). Make sure that the Internet does not spoil everything and have a plan B to connect to a second network if necessary.
  5. Final presentation: The work is not finished until it is presented. The last day of #hack4edu is dedicated to the presentation of the projects on 20 November. Remember that the jury will evaluate both your work and your presentation, so don’t relax until the end of the hackathon!Remember that there is still time, until November 7th, to submit your challenge or register as a hacker for the second edition of #hack4edu here. 

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