Activity can be taught in the classroom or online
Google, Windows, & Mac-friendly!
All documents are editable to meet your classroom needs.
 
This project is included in the Operating Systems Unit Plan- Information Technology
Empower your students to become tech innovators with the Design Your Dream Operating System Project—a hands-on, real-world simulation that blends creativity, problem-solving, and computer science fundamentals. Students step into the shoes of developers as they design a brand-new operating system tailored for a unique user group, such as gamers, creatives, children, seniors, or business professionals.
 
This engaging 4-part project challenges students to research real-world user needs, design custom features, build a visual OS interface, and deliver a persuasive pitch—just like a tech startup! Perfect for digital literacy, IT, computer science, or STEM classes, this project encourages critical thinking, develops presentation skills, and applies real-world concepts of operating systems.
 
What’s Included:
Editable 4-Part Project Slide Deck (PPT & Google Slides compatible)
Complete Rubric to assess creativity, functionality, and presentation
Teacher Instructions with 3-Day Pacing Guide
Step-by-step project prompts and audience planning tools
 
Project Breakdown:
Part 1: Identify a target audience (e.g., students, travelers, gamers) and describe their unique tech needs
Part 2: Plan your OS features (apps, security, customization, updates, storage)
Part 3: Design your visual OS interface using Canva, Slides, PowerPoint, or paper
Part 4: Pitch your OS to the class in a mini “Shark Tank”–style presentation
 
Learning Objectives:
Understand the structure and purpose of operating systems
Apply design thinking and user-centered development principles
Create a visual representation of a functional digital interface
Communicate ideas clearly through a professional tech pitch
Collaborate effectively in teams (optional)
 
Perfect For:
Digital Literacy, Information Technology, and Computer Science courses
Middle and high school STEM programs
Project-based learning or summative assessments
Individual or small-group activities
 
Why Teachers Love It:
Real-World Relevance: Connects tech concepts with practical application
Creative & Engaging: Students personalize their projects with artistic freedom
Flexible Format: Works digitally or on paper, solo or in teams
Low Prep: Comes with everything you need—assign and facilitate
 
Give your students a chance to dream big and think like developers with this innovative and future-ready operating systems project!