ATU's summer camps inspire future technologists
During the summer holiday, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) embarked on a mission to ignite young minds with a series of engaging and educational summer camps across Galway, Sligo and Donegal. With a diverse range of camps, ATU aimed to showcase the exciting possibilities and immense fun that technology and Computer Science offer as future study and career paths. Thanks to funding provided by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), these camps were made accessible to participants free of charge.
The summer camps offered an array of topics including game development, robotics, digital construction and computer programming.
Young enthusiasts with a passion for gaming immersed themselves in the world of game design, learning techniques, concepts, and tools to bring their ideas to life. Tutors provided hands-on activities and mentorship, as participants honed their skills and discovered the exciting potential of game development.
The RoboDev and Industrial Robot Programming camps introduced students to the fascinating world of robotics, teaching them how to build, program, and control robots. Participants explored advanced technologies, from building autonomous machines to exploring real-world applications and gained invaluable experience in this cutting-edge field.
The Digital Construction for Architecture and Engineering camp focused on architecture and engineering. The Digital Construction camp provided a platform for young minds to explore the intersection of technology and design. Through hands-on projects and collaborative activities, participants learned about the integration of digital tools and techniques in the construction industry.
At ATU Donegal, the Computer Science Unplugged camp, provided a unique and hands-on approach to learning computer science concepts. Simultaneously ATU Sligo hosted a Micro:bit Programming camp, introducing participants to the world of coding and hardware interaction.
ATU hosted the RoboDevCamp (VEX robotics) at Montbellow. This camp aims to further enhance students' robotics skills by delving deep into the VEX robotics platform. By encouraging active participation and providing an immersive learning experience, ATU continues to inspire and nurture young technologists.
ATU's summer camps went above and beyond to ensure gender balance among participants, fostering an inclusive environment that encourages all students to explore and excel in the field of technology. Applicants from DEIS schools were given priority, reflecting ATU's commitment to bridging educational gaps and providing equal opportunities to all.
The summer camps at ATU were not only about education but also about forging friendships and unforgettable experiences. Participants had the chance to network with like-minded individuals, sharing their passions and ideas. Through teamwork, collaboration, and the realisation of fantastic projects, the campers gained a deeper understanding of the potential that technology holds for their future endeavors.
To mark the culmination of the camps, a final parting ceremony was held, where the participants were presented with certificates of completion. Dr. Rick Officer, the Vice President for Research and Innovation at ATU, addressed the gathering, emphasising the importance of considering a future in STEM fields.
The success of each camp was due to the exceptional leadership provided by the dedicated camp organisers. As the participants bid farewell to their fellow campers and mentors, they carried with them memories of a week filled with learning, collaboration, and personal growth. Atlantic Technological University's commitment to nurturing the next generation of technologists was evident throughout these camps, and the impact on the participants will undoubtedly resonate in their future endeavors. The summer camps served as a testament to the bright future of ICT and the invaluable role ATU plays in shaping it.
Valerie Butler, lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and Applied Physics and co-chair of the BSc in Computing and Digital Media program, said: "The summer camps we offer present an opportunity for us to connect with second-level students and colleagues alike. As a unified team at ATU, we are committed to providing an unforgettable experience, one that is enjoyable and opens the world of ICT to our young participants.
The demand for ICT professionals is boundless. In our efforts to inspire and guide our camp participants, we have enlisted the support of our exceptional undergraduate students, who serve as outstanding role models and tutors, encouraging participants to unleash their creativity and empowering young minds to see that the world of computing is open, welcoming, and accessible to them, should they choose it as a future study and career path."
