Dean Kamen (Deka Research Founder) – Peddie Digital Fabrication Lab Dedication (Oct 2015)
Chapters
00:00:00 Fab Lab: Innovation and Technology at Petty School
Inspiration and Journey: The vision for a Fab Lab at Petty School originated from discussions within the Computational Thinking Committee. Faculty members Kevin Brown, Tim Korica, Ahmad Laban, Scott Meredith, and Mark Sarula played a key role in driving the idea forward.
Collaboration and Construction: Quinn Schwinker and his team at Ford III Architects transformed an old building into a futuristic facility. Nick Carnevale’s construction crew worked tirelessly to prepare the building for the new school year. Director of Building Services John Newman oversaw the project while managing the construction of two new dormitories.
Community Support: Petty parents David Crane and Isabella De La Jose reached out to Dean Kamen to invite him to the opening ceremony. Dean Kamen, despite his busy schedule, took time to connect with the Petty community.
Purpose and Significance: The Fab Lab aims to integrate technology into the curriculum, foster interdisciplinary learning, and provide concrete applications for STEM courses. It emphasizes critical thinking skills and prepares students for real-world industry experiences.
Petty’s Commitment to Innovation: Petty School prides itself on developing creative and innovative thinking among its students. The Fab Lab is a testament to the school’s long-standing commitment to technology and education.
Conception of the Robotics Lab: Two years ago, Mark Sawula and Tim Korica approached Catherine Rodrigue with a proposal to expand technology programming at Petty School. They envisioned a space where students could engage in computer programming and coding across various disciplines, appealing to both young men and women. The initial concept was inspired by NYU’s ITP space and Stanford’s D School.
Curriculum and Vision: The Computational Thinking Committee, led by Mark Sawula, Tim Korica, Mark Buckner, Emily Gee, and Andrew Harrison, developed a curriculum that emphasized tinkering with computers connected to high-tech machinery. The lab aimed to provide a remarkable space for students to explore the potential of technology and engineering.
The Robotics Competition: Scott Meredith, Kevin Brown, Mark Sawula, and 38 PETI students will participate in PETI’s first robotics competition. This competition will serve as a platform for students to engage with the lab’s resources and explore its potential.
Complementary Open Creative Space: Plans are underway to establish an open creative space alongside the robotics lab. This space will allow students to work on projects that range from creating 150-pound robots to props and costumes for musicals, fostering hands-on exploration of technology.
Gratitude for Support: Catherine Rodrigue expressed gratitude to various individuals and groups involved in the project. Scott Meredith, Mike McKittish, John Newman, Petty’s Building Services, Nick Carnevale, Ivano, Mark, the Petty Board, Petty Parents, and Petty Alumni were acknowledged for their contributions.
Introduction of Dean Kamen: Scott Meredith introduced Dean Kamen, a renowned inventor and creative mind with over 440 patents. Kamen’s inventions include a portable dialysis machine, an insulin pump for diabetics, prosthetic limbs, and a water purification system for developing countries.
00:07:05 FIRST Robotics: Inspiring Future Scientists and Technologists
The Importance of FIRST Robotics: Dean Kamen is the founder of FIRST Robotics, an international organization that uses competitive robotics to inspire students’ interest in science and technology. Over 400,000 students participate in the FIRST family of programs annually.
Petty Robotics Team’s Excitement: The 38 student members of the Petty Robotics Team are thrilled to have a new space to design, fabricate, and assemble their 2016 competition robot. They hope to present their robot to Dean Kamen in St. Louis in a few months.
David Crane’s Involvement: Dean Kamen emphasizes the importance of David Crane, the CEO of a major energy business, joining the FIRST Robotics board nationally. Crane provides mentors and resources to FIRST and is committed to growing the program.
FIRST Robotics Beyond Robotics: Kamen stresses that FIRST Robotics is more than just robots. It is a platform to teach students the power of science, math, and problem-solving.
Shimon Peres’ Endorsement: Kamen shares a story about Shimon Peres, the former Prime Minister and President of Israel, who is a strong supporter of FIRST Robotics. Peres believes FIRST Robotics is a valuable program that helps students in Israel, a country facing many challenges, to develop important skills.
Conclusion: Dean Kamen’s speech highlights the significance of FIRST Robotics in inspiring students to pursue science and technology and the role of individuals like David Crane in supporting the program.
00:12:01 Math and Science: The Key to Breaking the Cycle of Conflict
Shimon Peres’ Educational Reform Proposal: Shimon Peres, former Israeli President, expressed his concern about the ongoing cycle of conflict in the Middle East and the role of education in perpetuating this cycle. He believed that teaching history in schools led to each group teaching their own biased version, reinforcing hatred and mistrust among different groups. Peres proposed a radical shift in education, suggesting that schools should focus solely on teaching math and science.
Reasons for Peres’ Proposal: Peres argued that math and science are universal subjects with objective truths, which would provide a common ground for all students, regardless of their background. By teaching these subjects, students would learn the same truths and develop a shared understanding of the world. He believed that this approach would foster trust and cooperation among different groups, breaking the cycle of conflict.
Peres’ Goal for the Middle East: Peres’ ultimate goal was to establish a FIRST program in the Middle East, bringing together students from different countries to work on engineering projects. He believed that this would create a platform for collaboration and understanding, promoting peace and coexistence in the region.
Conclusion: Peres’ proposal highlights the importance of education in shaping the future of a region and the potential of STEM education to bridge divides and promote cooperation.
00:14:12 The Power of Collaboration and Innovation to Solve Global Challenges
Inspiration from Dean Kamen: Kamen shares a powerful story about the founder of FIRST, Shimon Peres, who emphasized the importance of cooperation and unity to address global challenges. Peres expressed his view that politics often divides people and countries and that the next generation should prioritize rational thinking and collaboration to solve global issues.
FIRST’s Global Reach: FIRST has achieved remarkable success in promoting STEM education and international cooperation, with participation from 83 countries in its annual championship. The goal is to create a 21st-century platform where all nations can come together through relevant and engaging sports, fostering understanding and cooperation.
The Role of Technology: Technology is seen as a tool of unification, bringing people together to address common problems and transcend political divisions. The global environment, energy, food, water, and healthcare are identified as critical areas where international collaboration is essential.
The Importance of Leadership: Kamen emphasizes the role of leadership in driving social change and solving global problems. David and Isabella are recognized for their commitment to real leadership, exemplified by their support for FIRST and their efforts to promote STEM education.
Petty’s Transformation: The Petty School community is praised for its shared vision and cooperation in transforming a dull building into a vibrant and inspiring learning space within a short timeframe. The quick fruition of the project is attributed to the efforts of the entire community, reflecting the hallmark of Petty’s collaborative approach.
Dean Kamen’s Impact: Kamen’s inspirational message resonated with the audience, leaving a profound impact on students and attendees alike. His words challenged the traditional view of politics and highlighted the potential of technology to unite people and solve global challenges.
Conclusion: The event celebrated the shared vision and cooperation of the Petty School community in transforming a building into a dynamic learning space. Kamen’s inspiring speech emphasized the importance of international cooperation, the role of technology in promoting unity, and the need for leadership to address global issues. The event showcased the potential of FIRST to inspire students and promote STEM education, fostering a sense of unity and collaboration among nations.
00:21:31 Digital Fab Lab Renovation and Fundraising
Digital Fab Lab Overview: The Digital Fab Lab is a new addition to the school with various facilities, including new concrete floors, HVAC systems, electrical systems, a mezzanine, and well-equipped machinery. The total cost of the project was $1.5 million, with $500,000 raised from donors so far.
Significance of the Lab: The Digital Fab Lab offers opportunities for students to design and bring ideas to life, boosting their confidence and problem-solving skills. The lab is an essential proving ground for students to develop solutions to real-world problems.
Challenge Grant and Fundraising: A $100,000 challenge grant from an anonymous donor was announced to match every dollar raised up to $100,000. This generous act reflects the spirit of the Petty School and its commitment to supporting the next generation of leaders.
Naming Opportunities: There are various naming opportunities available for individuals or organizations to support the project and leave a lasting impact.
Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony: The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the Digital Fab Lab to mark the official opening of the facility. The ceremony was attended by school administrators, faculty, staff, students, donors, and guests.
Abstract
Empowering Future Innovators: The Inauguration of Petty School’s Digital Fab Lab and the Impact of FIRST Robotics
Introduction: The Inauguration of the Digital Fabrication Laboratory
In an epoch where technological innovation is paramount, the Petty School’s new Digital Fabrication Laboratory (Fab Lab) stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, leadership, and vision. This state-of-the-art facility, inaugurated with the support of visionary individuals like Dean Kamen and the dedication of the school community, aims to revolutionize education by integrating technology and hands-on learning. This article delves into the significance of the Fab Lab, the inspiration behind its creation, the construction process, the goals it strives to achieve, and its potential in shaping the future of education and innovation.
The Genesis of the Fab Lab: A Collaborative Effort
The Fab Lab concept, a brainchild of the school’s Computational Thinking Committee, is the culmination of the efforts of faculty members Kevin Brown, Tim Korica, Ahmad Laban, Scott Meredith, and Mark Sarula. Their vision was brought to life by the architectural prowess of Quinn Schwinker and his team, who transformed an old building into a modern educational hub. Two years ago, Mark Sawula and Tim Korica approached Catherine Rodrigue with a proposal to expand technology programming at Petty School. They envisioned a space where students could engage in computer programming and coding across various disciplines, appealing to both young men and women. The initial concept was inspired by NYU’s ITP space and Stanford’s D School.
Constructing the Vision: Tireless Efforts and Strategic Partnerships
The transformation of the old boiler space into the high-tech lab was a monumental task, overseen by John Newman, Director of Building Services, and executed by Nick Carnevale’s construction crew. The project saw significant contributions from various stakeholders, including David Crane and Isabella De La Jose, who played a crucial role in involving Dean Kamen, a prominent figure in technology and education. John Newman, Director of Building Services, oversaw the project while managing the construction of two new dormitories. Petty parents David Crane and Isabella De La Jose reached out to Dean Kamen to invite him to the opening ceremony. Dean Kamen, despite his busy schedule, took time to connect with the Petty community.
The Fab Lab’s Mission: Fostering Innovation and Skills
At the heart of the Fab Lab’s mission is Petty School’s commitment to embedding technology in education, fostering interdisciplinary learning, and equipping students with critical thinking skills and practical STEM applications. The facility is not just an academic space but a breeding ground for future innovators and problem solvers, preparing students for real-world industry experiences. The Computational Thinking Committee, led by Mark Sawula, Tim Korica, Mark Buckner, Emily Gee, and Andrew Harrison, developed a curriculum that emphasized tinkering with computers connected to high-tech machinery. The lab aimed to provide a remarkable space for students to explore the potential of technology and engineering.
Curriculum and Resources: Shaping the Educational Framework
The Fab Lab’s curriculum, developed by the Computational Thinking Committee, is designed to be inclusive and appeal to all students, addressing the gender imbalance in computer coding courses. The project was supported by the Petty Board, parents, alumni, and educators like Scott Meredith, who were instrumental in securing the necessary resources and implementing the vision. The curriculum aims to integrate technology into the curriculum, foster interdisciplinary learning, and provide concrete applications for STEM courses. It emphasizes critical thinking skills and prepares students for real-world industry experiences. Petty prides itself on developing creative and innovative thinking among its students. The Fab Lab is a testament to the school’s long-standing commitment to technology and education.
Technological Advancement and Infrastructure
The renovation involved upgrading the technology infrastructure to accommodate advanced equipment and machinery, a crucial step in realizing the lab’s full potential. This transformation signifies the school’s dedication to providing a cutting-edge educational environment. Plans are underway to establish an open creative space alongside the robotics lab. This space will allow students to work on projects that range from creating 150-pound robots to props and costumes for musicals, fostering hands-on exploration of technology.
The Bigger Picture: Dean Kamen’s Involvement and FIRST Robotics
Dean Kamen’s presence at the event was not just ceremonial but symbolic of a larger movement in education and technology. As the founder of FIRST Robotics, Kamen advocates for using competitive robotics to ignite students’ interest in science and technology. His vision aligns perfectly with the Fab Lab’s goals, emphasizing the importance of fostering a global community of young problem solvers. Kamen is the founder of FIRST Robotics, an international organization that uses competitive robotics to inspire students’ interest in science and technology. Over 400,000 students participate in the FIRST family of programs annually.
Shimon Peres’ Vision: A New Educational Paradigm
The Fab Lab also embodies former Israeli President Shimon Peres’ vision of education focused on math, science, and technology. By prioritizing these subjects, the aim is to unify students under a banner of universal truths and collaboration, empowering them to address global challenges and break the cycle of conflict. Kamen shares a story about Shimon Peres, the former Prime Minister and President of Israel, who is a strong supporter of FIRST Robotics. Peres believes FIRST Robotics is a valuable program that helps students in Israel, a country facing many challenges, to develop important skills.
Kamen’s Global Perspective: Uniting Through Technology
Dean Kamen’s narrative extends beyond the walls of the Fab Lab. He envisions a world where technology serves as a unifying force, transcending cultural and political boundaries. This ethos is evident in the global reach of FIRST Robotics, which has seen remarkable growth in countries like Israel. Kamen stresses that FIRST Robotics is more than just robots. It is a platform to teach students the power of science, math, and problem-solving. Dean Kamen emphasizes the importance of David Crane, the CEO of a major energy business, joining the FIRST Robotics board nationally. Crane provides mentors and resources to FIRST and is committed to growing the program.
Celebrating the Milestone: The Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, led by Peter Quinn and Dean Kamen, was not just a formality but a celebration of community effort, vision, and the promise of innovation. The event was a culmination of tireless work, generous donations, and a shared belief in the transformative power of education. The 38 student members of the Petty Robotics Team are thrilled to have a new space to design, fabricate, and assemble their 2016 competition robot. They hope to present their robot to Dean Kamen in St. Louis in a few months.
A Step Towards a Brighter Future
The Digital Fab Lab at Petty School represents more than just an educational advancement; it symbolizes a shift in how we approach learning, innovation, and global cooperation. By equipping students with the skills and mindset to tackle real-world problems, the Fab Lab stands as a beacon of hope and a model for future educational endeavors. The support and vision of individuals like Dean Kamen and the commitment of the Petty School community have set the stage for a future where technology and education walk hand in hand towards a more unified and enlightened world.
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