Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting an Industry 4.0 Teacher Academy session in partnership with the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh’s MuseumLab, we welcomed elementary educators (grades K-6) for a hands-on deep dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI).
We kicked off the day by introducing Catalyst Connection, setting the stage for how we support educators and industry professionals alike in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of Industry 4.0. From there, the energy only grew as we moved into an insightful panel discussion featuring industry leaders from The Barnes Global Advisors, Aerotech, Inc., and The Robotics Factory. Our panelists shared their expertise, offered real-world applications of AI in their respective fields, and provided a look into the future of technology and education.
Then came the hands-on fun! The amazing team at the Children’s Museum guided educators through a variety of interactive activities designed to make AI approachable and engaging for young learners.
Some highlights included:
- Creating a bracelet in binary code (Who knew coding could be so fashionable?)
- Exploring the Gymlacium (a fascinating structure blending art, movement, and play)
- Reflecting on personal experiences with AI—what excites us, what concerns us, and what we want to learn more about
- Hands-on activities demonstrating how computers work (Because understanding the basics is key!
- Coding like a robot—teachers stepped into the shoes of AI, following precise, step-by-step instructions just like a programmed machine would, reinforcing the importance of algorithms and logical thinking.
- Interactive explorations of AI concepts—breaking down how AI functions in ways that students can grasp and apply
Throughout the day, there were plenty of “aha” moments, insightful conversations, and a real sense of community among educators who are eager to bring AI into their classrooms in meaningful ways. It’s clear that while AI might seem intimidating at first, with the right tools and experiences, it becomes something teachers and students alike can embrace with curiosity and confidence.
A huge thank you to everyone who made this event possible—our panelists, the wonderful team at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh, and most importantly, the educators who joined us. Your dedication to bringing innovation into the classroom is what makes all the difference!
Stay tuned for more Industry 4.0 Teacher Academy sessions—we can’t wait to continue exploring the future of education together!
