VR Workshop at Ida B. Wells High School

Ida B. Wells High School in San Francisco had a wonderful and lively Ignite Workshop in our school library and panel on May 1, 2019.

Teachers and students would like to thank The Hydrous and Dave Greenberg for bringing the ocean virtually to our students. And a big thank you to:

  • Lucinda Tay (Principal Architect at Eight Inc.)
  • Allison Fritts-Penniman (Evolutionary Biologist, Cal Academy of Sciences)
  • Elizabeth Kupfer (Animation Tech Lead, Fable Studio Lead VR Developer)
  • Danny Saetern (Director at Bad Honey Bun Games)

 

As a math and robotics teacher, I often have more boys than girls in my robotics class. After the Ignite Workshop, there was significant interest from the girls present in signing up for a robotics class in the fall.   

It was so much fun watching the students react to the underwater experience. Students had many questions for our wonderful panelists, who were interesting and prepared.

 

Students asked thoughtful questions about robotics and the future of technology. They also had questions about gaming. Of course, they were appreciative of the lunch that was served.

 

After attending this event:

88%

of girls/non-binary students are more interested in STEM

75%

of girls/non-binary students want to study harder to further their education

Here's what the students enjoyed most:

 

“I really like the virtual reality headset and it inspired me to learn how to swim” 

 

“This made me want more people to have the chance to enjoy it!”

 

“I enjoyed the VR experience and coding” 

 

“I think they should come back and talk to everyone”