Hackathons are events where groups work on a fast-paced project that solves an existing problem. The name is a combination of “hack” and “marathon”, in which hacking refers to exploratory work on a topic. Hackathons normally take place over a few days, and offer mentors so that participants can get feedback on their work. Often there are themes or challenge statements for groups to work towards. Projects that come from hackathons aren’t supposed to be perfect, but are good ways to find creativity for solutions to problems without answers.
About the author
Forest is a student studying computer science at Carleton University. He is also the technical co-founder of Timsle, a social accountability network that supports mental health and healthy habits. Forest spends a lot of his spare time working on open-source software, running hackathon competitions, and preparing the next generation of software developers for a better future.