Hampton City middle school students, staff and parents visited ODU-VMASC on January 12th 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 fostered problem based learning/inquiry paradigms through navigation of hands-on manufacturing experiences and engineering design processes. The workshop empowered innovative, industry practices within the digital age utilizing real time data on the digital thread based on 3D design, modeling, printing, manufacturing, alternative and virtual reality.
Guests 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”. Guests learned how to utilize information in real-time data leveraged on the digital thread, designing/building/maintaining of the digital life cycle of a ship, efficiency of digitizing benefits for focused solutions, and various careers opportunities.
Teams of 3-4 members created a prototype of a ship’s bulkhead employing multiple technologies and materials in the engineering design challenge after learning background information. 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.
LOVED seeing all of the students work collaboratively in action. I have never seen some particular students so engaged before! Students who are normally disengaged in the classroom loved the real-world application of the technology.
My favorite part was seeing the students utilize measurement in determining what materials to use and where to place on the peg board and using their problem solving skills when something went wrong during the challenge. I was also so excited to see so many female students attend. Your team did a great job of walking around and helping student groups as needed and encouraging groups who were visibly frustrated.
Parent, Hampton City Schools
I loved the whole day. I really loved seeing the students in action, working together and competing. Additionally it was great for us educators to get a chance to play the role of a student.