GEAR LAB prepares to launch with 20 students and trained mentors

GEAR LAB is ready to launch, with classes scheduled from September 22 to 28. The course schedule and learning objectives have been finalized, and mentors have completed their training, each building a functional robot they’ll use to guide students through hands-on learning.

Developments:

• Applications were sent out, and 20 students have been selected from over 90 applicants.

• Three mentors have completed training and are fully prepared to teach.

Activity:

• Finalized the class schedule and learning objectives.

• Mentors trained and equipped with robot models for teaching.

• Students selected and issued admission letters along with course details.

• Four surveys developed to assess student understanding at the beginning, middle, and end of the course.

• Media and marketing plans underway, focusing on documenting student progress through photos and videos.

While we’re on track to launch as planned, we faced two logistical challenges:

• Marketing Footage: Budget constraints have limited our ability to produce new media. We're repurposing existing resources to meet this need.

• Donated Computers: We surveyed students about access to personal devices and found that while some are equipped, others are not. Ten donated computers were expected but are still undergoing repairs. We're asking students to bring their own devices and are working on a contingency plan to provide a few additional computers before the course begins.

Finances: