Learning in Motion:

 An Inclusive, Hands-On Tech Day That Opened New Worlds

CODE313 had the incredible honor of welcoming 17 scholars, 6 chaperones, and 4 interpreters from the Michigan School for the Deaf for a fully immersive STEAM field trip experience. This visit was more than a workshop,  it was a powerful reminder of how accessible, inclusive technology can be when learning is designed with intention and care.

From coding to augmented reality design, scholars explored, created, and discovered new possibilities in a space built to ensure that every student could participate fully.

An Experience That Expanded Everyone’s Horizons

What made this field trip truly special was the way every scholar, educator, and interpreter was able to engage deeply with each activity. Communication flowed seamlessly, and the hands-on nature of STEAM learning created an environment where students could express their creativity and problem-solving skills without barriers. Watching scholars confidently dive into new tools, many for the very first time, showed that technology isn’t just universal, it’s a bridge that allows every learner to shine.

Classroom 1: Augmented Reality (AR) — Creating Custom Face Filters

One of the biggest highlights was the augmented reality session, where scholars learned how to build their own social-media–style face filters.

Using beginner-friendly AR design tools, students experimented with:

• Digital layers and visual effects
• Color filters and overlays
• Face-tracking features
• Creative expression through digital art

Their excitement was contagious, scholars lit up as they watched their custom filters come alive, proudly showing their creations to classmates, chaperones, and interpreters.

For many of them, it was the first time realizing they could create technology they normally only see online.

Classroom 2: Game Development Coding Their Very Own Games

In the game development room, scholars dove into Microsoft MakeCode Arcade, learning the foundations of coding and interactive design.

They created:

• Characters and sprites
• Game rules and mechanics
• Movements, scoring, and animations
• Playable mini-games they tested themselves
• 
  

This session sparked a ton of curiosity,  especially from students who had never coded before. The hands-on structure, paired with supportive interpreters and patient instruction, made the experience accessible, exciting, and empowering.

A Field Trip Filled With Excitement, Inspiration, and New Possibilities

By the end of the visit, scholars left feeling energized, proud, and excited to learn more about STEAM education. Many expressed how much they enjoyed being able to build things instead of just watching them and how the hands-on activities helped them understand tech in a whole new way.

For CODE313, experiences like this are at the heart of our mission:
To make STEAM accessible to all students, to broaden horizons, and to show every scholar that they have a place in the world of technology.

A Heartfelt Thank You

We extend a warm thank you to the Michigan School for the Deaf, their staff, and their interpreters for creating a supportive, collaborative atmosphere that made this field trip so meaningful.

We’re honored to have been part of their day and look forward to continuing to make STEAM education inclusive, inspiring, and accessible for every learner.