I dont mean creating a whole functional module, but more like using an example, modifying some values, adding it to the kernel and compiling.
To build a module you don't need to build the kernel, but you do need the kernel headers, you will understand all this once you get to understand a bit of C language, and a bit of assembly won't hurt. Start with MIPS.
You do need a good grasp on the C language, and a lot of time.
If you can drive the command line and a makefile you should be able to tinker, and render it unable to boot. :)