ACCESS Academy Launches Innovative AI Summer Camp for High School Students
ACCESS Academy's AI Summer Camp provides hands-on technology education to high school students.
Key Points
- • 43 high school students participated in the inaugural AI Summer Camp at ACCESS Academy.
- • Students programmed and operated micro:bit robots, learning both technical and soft skills.
- • The camp emphasizes inclusivity and aims to prepare students for tech careers.
- • Plans are in place to expand the program with advanced learning tracks and educator development.
ACCESS Academy at George Mason University successfully launched its inaugural AI Summer Camp, attracting 43 high school students from across Virginia. The camp, aimed at enhancing technology skills and preparing students for tech careers, featured hands-on activities involving micro:bit robots. Students learned to program these robots to execute various tasks, fostering both technical and soft skills critical for future employment.
"We aim to create inclusive pathways for students to college and careers in high-demand fields," said Dean Ingrid Guerra-López, emphasizing the importance of equitable education opportunities. Professor Roberto Pamas, directing the camp, noted industry concerns regarding high school graduates’ employability skills, making the camp's curriculum essential.
Over the week, participants engaged with real-world applications of AI and robotics, partaking in workshops and a tinkering lab that featured guest speakers from local tech company Kovexa. Feedback from students highlighted their excitement and inspiration, with many describing the experience as fun and fascinating.
Looking ahead, Guerra-López expressed plans to scale the initiative, offering more advanced tracks and professional development for educators, aiming to further enhance access to AI education for underserved communities.