Tech Education 2.0 by Haashir

Tech Education 2.0 by Haashir - August 2024 Scholarship Essay

Imagine trying to learn robotics through a screen that lags, textbooks that feel like they’re written in a different language, and a constant struggle to stay engaged. This was my reality at the beginning of my tech education. Understanding complex concepts without direct guidance on platforms such as YouTube was annoying, and maintaining motivation felt like an unwinnable battle.

This frustration induced my next big educational goal: to develop and implement a dynamic and accessible robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) curriculum for high school students. I aim to transform tech education by making it more interactive and engaging by providing a teacher who understands the students to another degree (pun intended) and a course seemingly crafted for an average high schooler. I could accomplish this by leveraging my future studies in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on robotics and Computer Science with an emphasis on AI and coding.

My journey into the tech world began with a hands-on project where three friends and I developed an AI-powered weapon classifier at a University of Texas at Dallas workshop. This experience enlightened me about the potential of robotics/AI and fueled my passion for these fields. After completing the workshop, I founded AI Prodigies, a platform where I teach kids about machine learning and Python. Through this initiative, I’ve seen firsthand how accessible and engaging tech education can inspire young minds. However, I realized that a more structured and comprehensive approach could have an even more significant impact.

With degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science, I plan to design a curriculum integrating advanced robotics and AI concepts into high and middle school education. This curriculum will bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making complex topics more digestible and exciting for students. By incorporating hands-on projects, interactive modules, real-world applications, and an educator who understands students like no other, I aim to address the difficulties I faced and foster a deeper understanding and enthusiasm for technology among students.

Ultimately, my wish is to make advanced tech education accessible and engaging, ensuring that the next generation of students not only grasp these concepts but are also inspired to create things they love by exploring the possibilities within the tech world without the challenges of self-teaching.