This summer Salt Lake Community College, in partnership with Verizon Innovative Learning, provided a free STEM summer camp to 180 middle-school students. The three-week course offered hands-on projects for students to learn valuable skills such as design thinking, coding, 3D printing, augmented and virtual reality.
Students discovered and engaged with their specific interests and new passions within the STEM realm. In addition to new skills, making new friends, and the experience of working on a local college campus, the STEM-based program was provided through The Mill and focused on technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.
“Seeing the excitement and enthusiasm radiating from the kids has been so cool,” says Brian Acord, director of Salt Lake Verizon Innovative Learning, who worked to bring the summer camp to SLCC. He says that Verizon contributed over $100k in technology and that the students “had a blast diving into the world of augmented reality, robots and 3D printing.”
Through the grant, the camp provided hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technology kits, including VR and AR devices, 3D printers, micro:bit sensors (tiny circuit board designed to help kids learn to code) and Sphero robotics. These tools enabled students to actively apply their knowledge, develop practical skills and create innovative projects.
“The kids spent their days coding robots, creating virtual realities, programming microbits and printing their own creations on 3D printers. The camp was buzzing with energy as the kids played with some seriously cool technologies and tools,” says Brian.
The program has an emphasis on sustainability, design thinking, entrepreneurial mindset and goal setting which equips students with valuable skills that are crucial for their future success in STEM fields. By participating in this camp Brian says that students not only gain technical expertise but also cultivate creativity, critical thinking and collaboration skills.
“Besides the amazing technology, we are surrounded by an incredible team of teachers and staff who make this experience truly exceptional,” says Brian. “They ignite curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and create a nurturing environment where students feel comfortable exploring and expressing their ideas.”
Parent Larry Christensen said his son loved the first week. “He has been exploding with excitement at the end of every day. I had no idea that he would love this program so much. I really hope that Verizon and SLCC find this as a success and are able to continue with this great program.”
As the camp continues next year, Brian says he excited to see young innovators grow, learn and form lifelong friendships. “Their curiosity and potential are boundless, and I have no doubt that they will go on to achieve incredible things.”
Learn more about the entrepreneurship work at SLCC and the Verizon Innovative Learning summer camp offered again next summer, by visiting: www.themillatslcc.com
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