What Kids Learned at Our Spring Camp - (Day 6)

Exploring AI and Engineering Through a Space Colony Project

Objective
To help students become familiar with AI technology through the engineering design process.

Mission
In this project, students were challenged to design and build a space colony for astronauts conducting research on new life forms and technologies. They were encouraged to imagine, plan, and create a habitable environment that could support life and daily activities in space.

Ideation and Blueprint Development

Students began by exploring the concept of AI and how it can support the design process.

• They were introduced to different AI tools and their practical uses.

• Students had the opportunity to interact with these tools, using prompts to develop and refine their ideas for a spacecraft and living environment.

• Using simple craft materials, they created a physical mock-up of their design, following the steps of the engineering design process.

• Each student shared their blueprint with the class and reflected on the challenges they encountered.

Building and Iteration

Students then brought their ideas to life using Minecraft as a building platform.

• They constructed key elements of their space colony, including living spaces, spacecraft, and essential systems such as water, oxygen, and energy.

• Using Minecraft Redstone systems, students explored basic automation concepts. As part of this, they created an automated door system to support the movement of resources within their colony.

• Throughout the process, students tested their designs, identified potential issues, and refined their builds through iteration.

This project gave students a chance to apply creativity, problem-solving, and engineering thinking in a hands-on way, while gaining a clearer understanding of how AI can support the design and development process.