ILP 2: Digitech

For my second Independent Learning Project I attended the FSU DIGITECH exhibition event. There were so many amazing projects that blew my mind. A lot of departments that utilize technology were there like the Information Systems Department and the Computer Science Department. They were able to show me some of their software and technology they use to analyze things like WiFi use. I also went to a booth that was about assisted learning for children that have trouble communicating. There was a variety of technology that uses pictures of items or letters that children can point to and use to communicate. What was really fascinating is that this booth had really old technology and newer tools so you could see the gradual development. I also went to a booth that uses a 3D printer to recreate artifacts in museums for blind children. I never really thought about the fact that museums are primarily visual experiences. Printing out replications of artifacts lets visually impaired individuals hold the items and feel them. One presenter actually created his own Iron Man suit from trash he found in a dumpster. It took him three years to complete and it was extremely detailed. He even had a flame thrower attached to it and he wasn't even a STEM major in college, he was a drama major. He really emphasized through his presentation that anyone can create anything with technology you just have to try. Overall, I was stunned and really impressed by all of the tools and technology at this event. It was well organized and super interesting!