Who would’ve predcited virtual reality, augmented reality and 3D modeling could be used for anything besides gaming?! Students from Isle of Wight County middle schools received hands-on exposure to the integrative technologies being utilized in shipbuilding and repair yards AND learned various exciting career pathways associated with Digital Shipbuilding and Repair!
Isle of Wight middle school students, staff and parents visited ODU-VMASC on March 23rd to engage in real world applications of STEM modules through technology associated with the digitized transformation in manufacturing of aircraft carriers!
The Digital Shipbuilding STEMpowerment workshop at ODU-VMASC fosters problem based learning/inquiry paradigms through navigation of hands-on manufacturing experiences and engineering design processes. The workshop empowers innovative, industry practices within the digital age utilizing real time data on the digital thread based on 3D design, modeling, printing, manufacturing, and virtual reality.
IoW students, educators, parents and families were engrossed within the realm of Digital Shipbuilding through participation in a hands-on tour, orientation of virtual/ simulation/digital labs and engaged in an engineering design challenge: “Up Against the Wall”.
Teams of 3-4 members created a prototype of a ship’s bulkhead employing multiple technologies and materials, after learning background information about the digital innovations. Members utilized collaboration, problem solving and critical thinking skills to engage in hands-on digital instructions/design of a ship bulkhead amongst peers. Team members had to consider sequencing of designing/building, accessing components, measuring and replicating the 3D models of a bulkhead. The final bulkhead prototypes were evaluated utilizing an engineering design rubric.
My favorite part of the day was watching my child collaborate with his team. I was able to see him use so many skill sets I don’t always get to see at home!
This experience opened my eyes to the career opportunities for my child in the shipbuilding and repair industry.
Parent, Isle of Wight Co. Schools
I have so many ideas on how to implement aspects of today in my classroom. It was great for students to use skills we teach in class as a real-world connection to the curriculum.