Project Next Generation Grant Funds Humanities & Tech Workshop for Middle Schoolers

Project Next Generation will engage participants in using technology to connect with past, present and future.   This is an eight-week program.  In the first half of the program, students will work as a team, as they learn features and then use digital cameras, recording equipment and video editing technology to produce high-quality archival interviews for the Illinois Veterans History Project.  Students will also acquire critical skills necessary to successfully interview individuals including an understanding of question development, preparation, pacing, listening and engagement.   Their work, 30 minute recorded interviews, will be uploaded to the Illinois Veterans History Project site and will also become part of the Library's local history collection. 

Students will continue to connect with the past, present and future with one of two four-week projects.  One group of students work collaboratively in their exploration and use of 360 Degree Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality technology.  The second student group will explore 3D Design and Printing including CAD software that facilitates the development of CAD drawings via photogrammetry.   Both student groups will create finished pieces that can be shared via community and/or classroom presentations.   The programs will include a "working" field trip to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, a location that will provide opportunities to utilize learned technologies to complete projects.   

This program is free and is open to all students, ages 11 through 14, including home-schooled students.  Participation is limited to a total of 20 students.  Up to ten students will participate in each of the two programs. 

For more information or to complete registration, a student and his/her parent/guardian should contact the Library Director, Cristy Stuppegia at 815-223-2341.