The school board of Calcasieu Parish has recently launched a “Mobile Makerspace” initiative that brings cutting-edge technology to classrooms. This mobile bus is equipped with advanced tools and equipment such as 3D printing, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality that students can use to enhance their learning experiences.
At Oak Park Middle School, students are using iPads and coding languages to program robots to take specific routes. Student Ava Fay finds it an engaging way to learn and says she enjoys the hands-on nature of the activities. Kim LeBlanc, the chief technology officer for the Calcasieu School Board, emphasizes the importance of preparing students for the future job market by developing a diverse set of skills.
The Mobile Makerspace bus collaborates with teachers to enrich learning experiences, and one activity involved programming drones to drop packages. Students learned how to control these drones and deliver Amazon packages, requiring them to land at a specific target to complete the delivery. Additionally, students have the opportunity to explore augmented reality art, as demonstrated by Ca’leaa Simien who created digital art on an iPad.
Teachers can now book the Mobile Makerspace bus for their students, providing a unique opportunity for a hands-on learning experience without leaving the school grounds. This initiative showcases the school board’s commitment to integrating technology and innovation into education to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow.
