The arrival of Large Language Models, commonly known as Artificial Intelligence (AI), may become a defining turning point in history. Some people believe that the world could be made a better place with the help of AI, while others believe it could be made worse.

In reality, probably some good things and some bad things will happen in the world because of AI, but the most important thing for you to think about is how you are going to use or not use this very powerful tool. AI is perhaps the most powerful computerized tool that humanity has ever created. Even so, everybody with a computer has access to it, even if they aren’t old enough to drive.

So, that’s what this course is about: learning to drive AI. This course will teach you how AI works, the ethical concerns you need to know about, and how to use it wisely and safely. It will teach you reasons why you should be really careful about how you use this very powerful tool, because it does have the potential to change your life and the lives of those around you.

Introductory sewing course.

Note – Students may only complete this ADST Module once over the course of grades 5-9.

Nanaimo CC+ meets face to face for a full day on Wednesdays for 18 weeks for grade 9-12. Students will complete two courses in the areas of Christian Studies (2 credits) and Physical and Health Education (4 credits). This synchronous face-to-face class will incorporate varied collaborative and independent activities through different modes of learning as well as some home activities to complete all course requirements.

The name TechLAB stands for the three subjects that are covered by this hybrid program: ADST (Applied Design, Skills, and Technology), English Language Arts, and Bible. Put those together, and you get TechLAB.

Technology is the focus of TechLAB, with students learning about coding, robotics, electronics, and the engineering design process. While many students think that is awesome, what’s even better is that students will also complete English Language Arts and Christian Studies while creating hands-on projects, following technical instructions, making visual presentations, reading a science fiction novel, discussing digital ethics, and wrestling with local and global issues related to technology.

TechLAB 9 is the culmination of the TechLAB program. It is for students who have taken TechLAB in a previous year and want to dive deeper into coding, electronics, and the design process. In ADST, students will study coding with Tynker and electronics and text-based programming with Arduino. In Christian Studies, students will have the choice of reading the second half of the Gospel of John or watching The Chosen: Season 3. English is woven through all of these activities. Additionally, students will read short stories and a novel. They will write a short story and three essays. There is a unit on New Media and another on Writing Skills.

What is really exciting about TechLAB 9 is the Capstone Project, which will bring together the design skills and outward-focused mindset that is integral to the TechLAB ethos. Students will come up with their own project which will meet a specific need and make the world a better place. In the Spring, this will become the primary focus of the program, culminating in the release of the project, student presentations, and a final celebration.

Prerequisites: TechLAB 7 and TechLAB 8 are not prerequisites for this program. Any Grade 9 student can take TechLAB 9.

TechLAB 9 has limited enrolment capacity. Once the program is full, it will no longer be available in Encom. Please email the course instructor if you would like your student placed on the waitlist.

Asynchronous:
This is the traditional online model of “any time, any pace, any place.” The student works on the course independently. The teacher is available on Zoom to help with questions, troubleshoot coding problems, and develop writing skills. If your student would benefit from weekly meetings with their teacher and classmates, please enroll in the synchronous version of the course.

Time Commitment:
TechLAB meets the requirements for three subjects in one set of assignments and lessons. As a result, TechLAB requires a significant commitment of time and energy. Students should plan to work on TechLAB for 3-6 hours per week, for 30 weeks. Extra time may be required in the Spring when students are wrapping up their Capstone Projects.