The recent SPARK Technical Training in AI-Literacy: The New Literacy in the 21st Century was a remarkable experience, not just for the knowledge gained but for the engaging methods employed throughout. By integrating various online tools, DICT created an interactive and immersive learning environment, making complex AI concepts accessible and enjoyable.

1. Canvas by Instructure
   A key platform used in the training was Canvas. This learning management system helped organize course materials, facilitate discussions, and track progress. With its intuitive interface, participants could easily navigate modules, access resources, and submit assignments. Canvas became a central hub for collaboration, encouraging a sense of community among learners, with multimedia resources enhancing comprehension of AI technologies.
   
2. Mentimeter
   Mentimeter kept sessions interactive with live polls, quizzes, and presentations, promoting real-time participant involvement. Attendees could share thoughts, answer questions, and provide feedback, making the sessions more responsive to their needs. This tool fostered an environment where learners felt encouraged to contribute, helping us adjust our approach based on feedback and ensuring all participants stayed engaged.
   
3. Poll Everywhere
   Similar to Mentimeter, Poll Everywhere offered interactive polls and surveys, which energized discussions and enabled participants to engage on their own devices. By allowing anonymous responses, it supported open dialogue, and real-time feedback helped us adapt the training to meet participants’ needs, fostering a more informed and inclusive learning atmosphere.
   
4. Quizizz
   Quizizz added a gamified aspect to the training. With fun quizzes and instant feedback, it kept sessions engaging while helping participants test their understanding of AI concepts. The game-like environment motivated learners, making it easy to learn from mistakes and retain information.
   
5. Zoom’s Whiteboard and Sticky Note
   Zoom’s Whiteboard and Sticky Note features provided a virtual collaboration space, enabling participants to brainstorm, organize ideas, and interact visually during discussions. The whiteboard allowed instructors to draw concepts and annotate in real-time, while sticky notes made it easy for participants to add thoughts, questions, and ideas on the fly, fostering a collaborative experience despite the virtual setting.

Creating a Dynamic Learning Experience

The integration of these tools—Canvas, Mentimeter, Poll Everywhere, Quizizz, and Zoom’s Whiteboard and Sticky Note—transformed our SPARK Technical Training in AI-Literacy into an engaging, collaborative experience. Participants not only gained foundational AI knowledge but also saw the importance of digital collaboration and communication. By promoting active learning and interaction, the Tech4ED Orion Center is fostering a future-ready, tech-savvy community prepared for the digital challenges ahead.