Coding and robotics workshop provides deeper context | Island Life

A coding and robotics workshop was the context for a deeper lesson that represented more than just technical instruction, but life skills that could be harnessed in the near future for the students.

“In life, we are trying to save our planet, but also develop a mindset, and a toolset too, for problem-solving later in life,” said Colette Beausoleil during her keynote address to students opening the workshop. Beausoleil moderated the instruction for the workshop and was recently recognized as the 2024 Guam Department of Education Teacher of the Year for her work in STEM instruction at John F. Kennedy High School.

“For many students who don’t have exposure to modern technology, this workshop is providing a really great opportunity for students to be exposed to coding and robotics, which is part of the digital revolution that is the foundation for every sector in business and industry,” said Beausoleil.

The two-day workshop, held at a GTA conference room in Tamuning this past Thursday and Friday, is a partnership between GTA and the Guam Green Growth Circular Economy Makerspace and Innovation Hub. Ten students from various schools were immersed in a series of video presentations followed by hands-on manipulation of computers, computer chips and miniature robots. The two-day event was free but limited to a dozen participants between ages 12 and 16.

The workshop is designed to introduce students to 3D printing, sustainability, and the circular economy. The hands-on activities and interactive lessons are intended to develop interest and understanding of technology and environmental responsibility.

Jasper Danan, an applications developer at GTA, is also a former student of Beausoleil. Danan provided instruction for the workshop and got the students started with coding their miniature robots.

“We are trying to get kids interested in coding but also get them thinking about a career path in technology,” said Danon. “There are so many opportunities opening up on Guam, and we want to make sure the youngsters recognize that,” he said.

“We hope this camp will help these kids get their feet wet with coding and robotics, and that helps them with ideas or career angles later on,” said Danon.

For some attendees, the workshop provides additional learning in the growing fields of programming and robotics.

“My mom found this camp and signed me up for it,” said Isaiah Beckwith, a home-schooled 12-year-old.

“I do a lot of coding at home, and if I get to program robots, that sounds interesting to me,” said Beckwith, “as a career, I’m looking more into aerospace but coding is a really fun hobby, it’s really enjoyable.”

For others, the workshop is an opportunity to explore a field outside of their chosen career paths.

“My mom sent me and my siblings, I’m not really interested in this type of thing but maybe it’s something I could use in the future, maybe in a law career,” said Isabella Lee, a 14-year-old attending Harvest Christian Academy. Lee and her two brothers attended the workshop.

Beausoleil believes the workshop can provide general learning skills and an understanding of systems that facilitate learning, regardless of a student’s chosen field of expertise.

“If you have a goal, it doesn’t matter how bad it gets if you always keep your eye on the goal,” Beausoleil said to the kids, “if you have goals and aspire to things, you will be successful.”