Robots & Virtual Reality: MCC brings cutting-edge tech to South Tama assembly
Friday / January 29, 2016
South Tama student, Nate Drummer, takes MCC’s Vex Robotics Design ‘clawbot’ for a spin on Wednesday. Also pictured is MCC Student Ambassador, Joshua Benda.
Marshalltown Community College has made an effort this year to get out into the surrounding schools to showcase its academic programs to young students. The College continued its partnership with South Tama Middle School this week when over 100 eighth graders filled the gymnasium to learn about MCC’s Computer Science program.
Many of the students had the opportunity to get their hands on some cutting-edge gadgets brought in by MCC. This was the second college-ready partnership event with South Tama Schools—the first being last December. The goal of these assemblies is showcase what academic programs and pathways that MCC offers, all while having a bit of fun.
Savitha Pinnepalli, MCC Computer Software & Technology faculty, took the stage to explain her program and some of the great opportunities in the field. She presented the Vex Cortex Robots, which were operated by remote controls and then asked volunteers from the audience to step down and give it a shot. The Vex Robotics Design System ‘clawbot’ was created by Pinnepalli’s Intro to Programming & Logic Design class.
South Tama Students experiencing a rollercoaster ride via their Virtual Reality (VR) headsets.
Next, Pinnepalli brought out some Virtual Reality (VR) headsets for students to try. MCC staff each downloaded the VR Rollercoaster app to their smartphones and placed the smartphone in the ‘Google Cardboard’ VR headset. The app takes the viewer on a 3-D rollercoaster ride through their VR viewfinder. ‘Google Cardboard’ is compatible with hundreds of educational and entertainment apps. Students also solved square me puzzles.
“Computer Science drives job growth and innovation throughout our economy and society,” says Pinnepalli. “Computing is used all around us and in virtually every field. Computer Science inspires critical thinking skills in students.” Pinnepalli’s classes include Foundations of Web site design, Introduction to Programming Logic and Design using Robot C and Office Applications.
The College plans to continue visiting area schools throughout this spring semester.
For more information about MCC’s computer sciences programs, contact Savitha Pinnepalli at Savitha.Pinnepalli@iavalley.sites.flyinghippo.com or 641-844-5738, or contact the College directly at 641-752-7106.