Workshops & Events
Connecting with students, faculty, and our community.
Workshops & Events
Connecting with students, faculty, and our community.
In an era where digital literacy is paramount, our current workshops are designed to equip participants with essential skills in 3D printing, prompt engineering, and digital tools to bridge the digital divide and increase broadband awareness. These workshops—tailored for college students, faculty and staff, and students in grades 5-12—provide hands-on learning experiences that foster technological proficiency and encourage lifelong learning.
Our 2-hour mini workshop on 3D printing is a cornerstone for this initiative. For college students, this session dives deep into the innovative world of 3D printing, highlighting its applications in engineering, design, and beyond. Participants learn about different types of 3D printers and materials, get hands-on experience setting up and operating the Robo E3, and explore 3D modeling software. This experience addresses technical skills and prepares students for careers in technology-driven fields.
For faculty and staff, the 3D printing workshop emphasizes integrating this technology into the curriculum. Educators learn to set up and use 3D printers, create 3D models, and incorporate 3D printing projects into their teaching. This empowers educators to bring innovative, hands-on learning experiences into the classroom, engaging students and enhancing their understanding of complex concepts. For students in grades 5-12, the workshop is designed to spark creativity and curiosity. Young learners are introduced to the basics of 3D printing in a fun and interactive way, encouraging them to explore STEM fields and develop problem-solving skills early on.
Complementing the 3D printing workshops is our 30-minute workshop on Prompt Engineering for Research and Discovery. This session introduces participants to crafting effective prompts for AI and natural language processing (NLP) tools. Participants learn how to enhance their research capabilities, streamline data discovery, and improve the accuracy of AI-driven insights. By mastering prompt engineering, students, faculty, and professionals can leverage AI to support their work.
These workshops aim to close the digital divide by providing equitable access to cutting-edge technology and digital skills, empowering individuals with knowledge and hands-on experience, and fostering an inclusive digital landscape where everyone has the opportunity to succeed and explore. The added reference to broadband awareness ensures that participants understand the importance of reliable internet access in leveraging these technologies effectively.
Participants gain technical skills and an appreciation for technology's potential through these workshops. To advocate for digital literacy and broadband access in their communities, contributing to a more connected and technologically proficient society. By addressing the digital divide head-on, we are fostering accessibility to all with innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.
15-Minute Facility Tour
An engaging 15-minute tour of our state-of-the-art lab facility, designed to showcase the cutting-edge technology and resources available to students, faculty, and staff. This quick yet comprehensive tour will provide an overview of our 3D printing capabilities, computer workstations, and wireless technology equipment, highlighting how these tools can enhance your learning and creative projects. As a special takeaway, each participant will receive a custom 3D-printed item, a tangible reminder of the innovative possibilities in our lab.
Tour Highlights:
Welcome and Introduction
Brief overview of the lab's purpose and resources
Introduction to the tour guide and itinerary
3D Printing Area
Demonstration of Robo E3 and Robo E3 Pro 3D printers in action
Explanation of different types of filaments and their uses
Showcase of completed 3D printed projects and their applications
Computer Workstations & Conferencing
Tour of the MacBook Pros and Dell Precision Workstations
Overview of the software available for design, modeling, and engineering
Introduction to the Dell docking station monitors and their capabilities
Wireless Technology Equipment
Brief explanation of the Siklu and Mimosa wireless telecommunications equipment
Discussion on how these tools facilitate advanced networking and communication projects
Q&A and Takeaway
Opportunity to ask questions and explore specific interests.
Distribution of a small 3D printed item to each participant as a keepsake
30-Minute Prompt Engineering for Research and Discovery
This 30-minute workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of prompt engineering, a crucial skill for leveraging AI and natural language processing (NLP) tools in research and discovery. Participants will learn how to craft effective prompts to enhance their research capabilities, streamline data discovery, and improve the accuracy of AI-driven insights. This session is ideal for students, researchers, and professionals who want to harness the power of AI to support their work.
Workshop Contents
Introduction to Prompt Engineering
Definition and importance of prompt engineering
Overview of AI and NLP in research and discovery
Understanding AI Models and Their Capabilities
Brief introduction to AI models (e.g., GPT-4)
How AI models interpret and respond to prompts
Crafting Effective Prompts
Key principles for creating clear and concise prompts
Examples of well-crafted prompts for different research scenarios
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Hands-On Prompt Engineering
Interactive exercise: participants create their prompts based on a given research topic
Group discussion and feedback on prompt effectiveness
Case studies showcasing the successful use of prompt engineering in research
Practical tips for integrating prompt engineering into your research workflow
Q&A and Further Resources
Addressing questions and clarifying concepts
Providing resources for further learning and practice in prompt engineering
By the end of this workshop, participants will have a foundational understanding of prompt engineering and how to apply it effectively in their research and discovery processes. They will leave with practical skills to enhance their research capabilities using AI and NLP tools.
30-Minute Orientation to the Robo E3 (required for all users of the 3D printers)
Join us for a comprehensive 30-minute orientation on the Robo E3, designed to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills to start your 3D printing journey. This session is perfect for beginners and those new to the Robo E3, providing a hands-on introduction to this versatile and user-friendly 3D printer. By the end of the orientation, you'll have a solid understanding of the printer's features, setup process, and essential operation, enabling you to confidently create your first 3D prints.
What Will Be Covered:
Introduction to the Robo E3 (5 minutes):
Overview of the Robo E3 3D printer
Key features and benefits
Safety considerations and best practices
Unboxing and Setup (5 minutes):
Unpacking the printer and components
Assembling and positioning the printer
Initial power-up and connectivity options (Wi-Fi, USB)
Navigating the Touchscreen Interface (5 minutes):
Introduction to the touchscreen menu
Basic navigation and settings
Loading and unloading filament
Preparing Your First Print (10 minutes):
Selecting and downloading a 3D model file
Using the Robo E3 slicing software
Configuring print settings (temperature, speed, etc.)
Starting and Monitoring a Print (5 minutes):
Initiating the print job from the touchscreen
Monitoring the print progress and troubleshooting common issues
Removing and inspecting the finished print
Q&A and Additional Resources (5 minutes):
Answering any questions
Providing tips for successful 3D printing
Sharing resources for further learning and support
Join us for this informative session and take the first step towards mastering 3D printing with the Robo E3!
120-Minute Mini Workshop: Introduction to 3D Printing
This hands-on 2-hour mini workshop is designed to introduce participants to the exciting world of 3D printing. Whether you are a college student, faculty member, staff, or a student in grades 5-12, this workshop will provide you with a solid foundation in 3D printing technology. You will learn about the fundamentals of 3D printing, explore different types of 3D printers, and gain practical experience by creating your 3D-printed objects. Join us and discover how 3D printing can revolutionize how we learn, teach, and create.
For College Students - Dive into the innovative world of 3D printing with our 2-hour mini workshop tailored for college students. This session is perfect for those looking to enhance their technical skills and explore new creative possibilities. Whether you're studying engineering, design, or any other field, 3D printing offers endless opportunities to bring your ideas to life.
For Faculty and Staff - Empower your teaching and administrative strategies with our 2-hour mini workshop on 3D printing, designed specifically for faculty and staff. Discover how 3D printing can enhance your curriculum, facilitate innovative projects, and streamline administrative tasks.
For Students in Grades 5-12 - Unlock the creative potential of young minds with our 2-hour mini workshop on 3D printing, specially designed for students in grades 5-12. This fun and interactive session introduces students to the basics of 3D printing, encouraging them to explore, create, and innovate.
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Introduction to 3D Printing
Overview of 3D printing technology and its fun applications
Inspiring examples of 3D printed objects
Types of 3D Printers and Materials
Basic introduction to different 3D printer types (FDM, SLA)
Overview of safe and easy-to-use 3D printing materials (PLA)
Getting Started with 3D Printing
Unboxing and setting up a 3D printer (Robo E3)
Loading filament and preparing the build plate
Introduction to 3D Modeling
Overview of 3D modeling tools (dependent on the audience)
Creating a simple and fun 3D model
Slicing and Preparing Your Model for Printing
Introduction to slicing software
Configuring print settings and generating G-code
Hands-On Printing Session
Starting a print job on the Robo E3
Monitoring the print process and troubleshooting
Post-processing and Showcasing
Removing prints from the build plate
Basic post-processing and showcasing their creations
Q&A and Discussion
Addressing questions and sharing tips
Encouraging further exploration and learning