Stimulating Imaginations and Learning at Princeton University Kids Embrace Technology

Learning programming languages like C++, Java or HTML and producing digital movies might sound intimidating to those of us who grew up using a typewriter and listening to records. Not so though for Arthur Bailin and others from Princeton, Lawrenceville, and the NJ area. At a young age, Arthur is learning tech skills in school that we might hesitate to tackle even as adults. Though we may feel overwhelmed by technology, for the new generation of "digital kids," this is the stuff of dreams.

With technology tools at their disposal and more accessible at home and in school, digital kids are bringing their creativity to life on the computer. Students wow their teachers with PowerPoint presentations. Kids as young as eight and nine learn to make their own Web pages, and they shine with pride over their accomplishments. As these children master important skills, they have feelings of empowerment, independence and self-confidence.

It seems that technology, which many have feared would limit children's imaginations and cause static thinking, in fact has the opposite effect. A study by researcher Dr. Susan Haugland conducted at the Southeast Missouri State University shows a link between developmentally appropriate software exposure and the increase of creativity and self-esteem in children.

But beyond just fun and games, kids like Arthur who invest time in learning technology skills early may be getting a serious leg up on future job market competition.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Employment Projection 2000, eight of the top 10 fastest growing occupations were computer-related, including jobs such as computer software engineer, database administrator and desktop publisher - all of which will require advanced computer skills.

This new generation of digital kids is leaving many not-as-computer-savvy parents struggling to find new ways to encourage their children's interest and development in technology. One answer may be found in supplemental programs such as iD Tech Camps (www.internalDrive.com), a weeklong computer summer camp for ages seven to 17 located at over 35 prestigious universities nationwide, including Princeton University, Villanova University, Vassar College, and Stanford University.

"We struggled to find a program that would fit Brent's interests," said parent Lara Ward. "iD Tech Camps helped foster and develop those interests. It opened up a whole new world for him."

iD Tech Camps' innovative teaching approach includes using college-age students, recent college graduates and technology professionals as instructors who teach cutting edge technology at over 35 prestigious universities nationwide. The subject matter ranges from digital movie production and video game creation to college preparatory programming. Each student completes a finished project by the end of the week. No matter what course students take, the focus is always on fun and experimentation with new technology while articulating oneself in new and creative ways.

iD Tech Camps and other programs like it expose students to technology in a hands-on environment, encouraging them to develop the technology skills that most interest them. The students study in a university setting, giving them a chance to experience college life. iD Tech Camps has also partnered with technology companies including Adobe, Apple, Microsoft, Yamaha, Canon, Macromedia, Conetic and more, allowing the camp to offer the latest in technology. As a result of this exposure, the students are motivated to use their new skills in the real world - with amazing results.

"My son Sam is already using what he learned," said parent Joel Hanes, whose son attended an iD Tech Camps at Stanford University. "He has done the layout and editing for newsletters, and he has worked on programs for fun on his computer at home."

Nor is tech learning confined to programming code and mathematics. Jeannette Loriezo's daughter Alyssa attended one of iD Tech Camps' newest programs: digital music editing. Said Loriezo, "This specialized course helped to build my daughter's confidence and let her creativity blossom. She is now considering a career in digital music."

The digital age is just beginning. As technology usage continues to broaden and evolve, new opportunities will arise for kids like Arthur, Brent, Sam and Alyssa. With so many opportunities for growth, we can expect to see some amazing innovations from this generation of digital kids.

Written by Megan Horner.
For more information on iD Tech Camps, please visit
www.internalDrive.com or call 1-888-709-TECH (8324).