On April 2, Verizon hosted an Innovative Learning Lab for a group of Sacramento middle school students that took them around the world and back without ever leaving their seats. The lab helped kick off TechNet’s California Diversity in Tech and STEM Week 2018 and gave the students hands-on experience with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).
The event is part of Verizon’s Innovative Learning initiative, which brings next-gen technology, innovative curricula and connectivity to under-resourced students.
Students tapped into the power of technology to travel the world through VR and create their own 360° experience. In addition, students inspected the anatomy of a human brain and explored the solar system in AR. All students left with a VR headset and a QR code so they could continue the learning experience at home alongside friends and family.
“As technology and learning platforms continue to evolve at a rapid clip, we’re bringing technology and hands-on learning opportunities directly to kids who need it most.” said Jonathan LeCompte, Pacific Market president for Verizon. “We’re focused on providing kids in under-resourced communities with the skills to succeed.”
Verizon recently announced a more than $200 million investment in Verizon Innovative Learning, bringing the total investment to more than $400 million. To date, the Verizon Innovative Learning initiative improved the lives of one million students and, with the new funds, is committing to reach an additional five million over the next five years.
You can help Verizon’s efforts to provide students with brighter futures by nominating a middle school in your community to become a Verizon Innovative Learning school and receive tablets, 4G LTE connectivity and teacher training to effectively integrate technology into the learning experience. Through April 15th, advocates should quote tweet and/or reply to one of a series of videos posted to the @Verizon Twitter handle, highlighting impactful stories from the program, along with the school name and location, using #Humanability.
This event is part of Verizon’s commitment to the community of Sacramento, a robust partnership designed to help bridge the digital divide and create one of the most innovative cities in the nation.
Learn more about Verizon’s commitment to the community of Sacramento here and here.
Learn more about Verizon Innovative Learning