Blog

Illinois School for the Deaf – STEM Course – Web Design and Development

Steve Waddell • January 10, 2018

Web Design STEM Course gets started.

For over a year, I looked to try to find a school for the Deaf we could work with. My belief was that there was no reason why someone who was hearing impaired could not thrive in a career in Web.

I called Mark DuBois up (Head of WebProfessionals.Org ), and I told him I wanted to do a pilot using our Web Design.

Mark and his association team immediately agreed. Not only did they agree, but they also offered to match our pilot gift with gifting the industry certification exams as well. Ya gotta love Mark and his association.

STEM Pilot School – ISD

One day, after some months trying to get some local schools for the deaf to listen to the offer, I got a call from Mark. Mark was very excited, not unusual. He was at a conference, also not unusual.

He called to say he was sitting beside the CTE Principal of the Illinois School for the Deaf Jill Bruington. Now, this was unusual. He called to find out if he could make the pilot offer to Illinois.

Naturally, I said yes. A week later, we were doing webinars with the Illinois SD team, and my team was off to finish the last of the closed captioning of the course’s over 150 tutorial videos.

In the webinar training, we met the two professional educators who would be making this all happen at ISD; Lana Shea (Junior High) and Bruce Baccus (High School).

They went through our training and began teaching the Web Developer course in August. Lana and Bruce were terrific teachers to train and are great to work with. Both are eager to give their students all the advantages they can and prepare them for where their career choices take them.

Visiting with the STEM teachers of the Web Design course at ISD

Mark and I visited Illinois School for the Deaf and spoke to both Lana’s and Bruce’s classes. We also spoke at the school’s monthly “literacy Lunch.” It is a beautiful school with great students and awesome teachers. Everybody was warm, friendly and smiling. We both had a great time.

STEM Literacy Lunch – Illinois School for the Deaf

BTW – ISD is huge. An incredible campus, well kept with plenty of room for the students. The campus puts some small colleges I have visited to shame.

Mark, always the educator, asked Both Lana and Bruce about teaching and their experiences with the course. Below are some excerpts and more of their responses are in the Web Professonal’s newsletter. Check out the link at the end of this post.

Web Development STEM Course – Teacher’s Point of View

STEM PIlot Program – Lana Shea and her Middle School Web Development Class

Lana Shea said – “Offering our students free access to the web design class has made them feel special that they were targeted for this offer, has opened up new worlds/concepts that have engaged them, and has provided employable skills.” She then went into more detail. She raised these main points. “Problem Solving.

Way too many teachers (and parents) provide algorithm training (you put this number here, then carry this number down, then bring this number up) rather than understanding.

Kids given a worksheet with 10 division problems may succeed, but give them 1 word problem and forget it. Coding is problem solving. You know what you want the code to do and you compare that with the output and then you problem solve- not some unrelatable, abstract, contrived problem, but rather a natural, spontaneous, motivating, personal goal. Empowering……”

Bruce added these thoughts as well “From my students’ point of view the new web design course at the Illinois School for the Deaf is important for several reasons. This course is providing them with an incredible intellectual challenge.

They are developing and improving their creative writing and communication skills; they are learning logic and program coding skills; and they are developing a sense of appreciation for design aesthetics and graphics design.

They are learning how to work collaboratively and look at a project from a point of view other than their own. They are learning how to ask questions that will elicit information that is critical in the early phase of the web design process.

STEM Educators Steve Waddell, Bruce Baccus, Mark Dubois,

They have deduced that the primary purpose of an interview between a web designer and a client is more than a gathering of facts and information about a client’s business.

They have learned that the primary purpose of an interview between a web designer and a client is to discover the truth about a client’s business, his core message, and the value of what he is offering to his customers.

In addition to all of the benefits that come from the thinking and creative elements of the web design course, my students realize and appreciate that they have been offered a great opportunity.

If they successfully complete this course, they can earn industry certification and credentials as web designers prior to graduating from high school. Not only is this important to my students, it is potentially life changing…”

From my point of view as a teacher, the new web design course at ISD is important for some of the same reasons.

Even though I have decades of experience as a teacher of deaf students, I had almost no knowledge or experience with web design prior to this school year…The opportunity to guide my students through both collaborative and individual learning experiences that are new and challenging is one of the keys to a robust and vibrant learning environment.

One of my philosophies about teaching is that it’s not about what’s best for me, it’s about what’s best for my students.

Because this new course is a great opportunity for my students to learn and grow intellectually and creatively, it has therefore become a great opportunity for me to do the same. As a veteran teacher, this is very important to me.”

STEM Course and Industry Certifications

How Mark sees this course. “Students enrolled in the web design class are exposed to the full realm of skills necessary for future success, and it’s not limited to coding. The concept of soft skills, such as effective communication, problem-solving, articulating, conceptualizing, and visualizing are explored.”

STEM Course Pilot Visit – Bruce Baccus’ High School Web Development Class

If you want to read the whole newsletter article by the WebProfessionals.org, then click below.
The WebProfessionals.org Newsletter

 

If you want to see how you can have the course mentioned in this post at your school, then click the Contact Tab at the top of this page or go to Web Design with HTML5/CSS3 Industry Certification Course

 

At the time this post was written all the the students in both classes we expected to complete the course and sit for their certificate or certification exams.

We know Ms Shea’s middle school students will be receiving their STEM Web Development Novice Certificates from the Web Professionals in March and we expect the Mr. Baccus’ high school students to sit for their industry exams later in the spring semester.

We’ll post some updates later about the ISD pilot and the students’ success.

Have Fun – Steve

Share To

Get in touch with us today!


You can book a demo directly using Calendly, call us directly at 913-764-4272 or 877-828-1216, or submit the form and we will reach out to you.


We look forward to helping you and your students.

students with STEM certifications

Most Recent Posts

How Can AI Help People in the Trades?

By Steve Waddell • December 30, 2024
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries worldwide, and the trades are no exception. Rather than replacing skilled tradespeople, AI is emerging as a powerful tool to enhance their work. From streamlining complex tasks to offering innovative solutions, AI enables tradespeople to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently—saving time and money while improving safety and quality. So often, people think of AI as a tool only for the tech world, but it has applications far beyond coding and software development. Whether you are in a trade, a small business owner, or a tech professional, AI has something to offer everyone—if you know how to use it. By learning how to integrate AI into daily workflows, individuals across all industries can unlock new efficiencies and possibilities. We could apply this approach to every trade career, but we already do this comprehensively with our PromptScout app in our brand-new AI for the Workplace course . In this article we will highlight several career pathways including welding, construction, electrical work, plumbing, dental hygiene, and cosmetology to demonstrate how trade professionals are finding practical ways to incorporate AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity, CoPilot, etc. into their daily routines. AI in Welding Applications and Benefits AI in welding is primarily used for quality assurance, process optimization, and safety monitoring. Welding involves precision, and even minor errors can lead to structural weaknesses. AI can analyze welding patterns, detect inconsistencies, and provide real-time feedback to improve quality. For example, AI-powered welding robots equipped with sensors can monitor heat levels, adjust welding speed, and ensure consistent weld seams. These robots don’t replace welders but assist them in achieving precise results, reducing the need for rework and material waste. Example: Using ChatGPT in Welding A welder could use ChatGPT to quickly look up troubleshooting steps for common welding defects like porosity or cracking. For instance, a welder encountering uneven weld beads might ask, “What are some reasons my weld beads are uneven, and how can I fix them?” ChatGPT could provide detailed guidance, helping the welder resolve the issue on the spot. AI in Construction Applications and Benefits Construction projects are complex, requiring meticulous planning and coordination. AI excels in managing logistics, analyzing structural designs, and predicting potential issues before they arise. AI-powered software can create detailed project schedules, optimize material usage, and forecast potential delays due to weather or supply chain disruptions. Drones equipped with AI can survey construction sites, providing accurate measurements and identifying safety hazards. Example: Using ChatGPT in Construction A construction manager might use ChatGPT to draft safety guidelines for a specific task or generate a materials list based on project specifications. For example, “What are the safety precautions for operating a crane near power lines?” ChatGPT can offer a concise checklist, ensuring compliance and worker safety. AI in Electrical Work Applications and Benefits Electricians benefit from AI tools that diagnose electrical issues, design circuits, and predict system failures. Smart home systems integrated with AI allow electricians to set up automated energy-saving configurations for clients, enhancing functionality and efficiency. AI-powered diagnostic tools can analyze electrical panels and pinpoint issues such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring. These tools save time by eliminating guesswork, allowing electricians to focus on repairs. Example: Using ChatGPT in Electrical Work An electrician could use ChatGPT to find wiring diagrams or confirm code compliance for a specific installation. For instance, they might ask, “Help me diagnose a large voltage drop on an outside circuit.” ChatGPT’s response can serve as a quick reference, ensuring the job is done correctly. Additionally, an electrician could use AI tools to create a brochure or blog post to promote their qualifications, highlighting certifications, services offered, and customer testimonials to attract more clients. AI in Plumbing Applications and Benefits AI in plumbing aids in detecting leaks, mapping pipe systems, and preventing water waste. Smart sensors combined with AI can monitor water flow and alert plumbers to potential issues before they escalate. AI-enabled cameras can inspect pipes for blockages or corrosion, providing plumbers with real-time visuals and analytics. These tools improve accuracy and reduce the time needed to diagnose problems. Example: Using ChatGPT in Plumbing A plumber might use ChatGPT to draft an estimate or explain a repair process to a customer. For example, “How should I explain the steps for replacing a water heater to a homeowner?” ChatGPT can generate a clear explanation, helping the plumber communicate effectively and build trust with the client. Additionally, a plumber could use AI tools to create a spreadsheet showing the return on investment (ROI) for installing low-flow toilets and shower heads, illustrating potential water savings and long-term cost benefits for clients. AI in Dental Hygiene Applications and Benefits Dental hygienists can leverage AI for patient diagnostics, treatment planning, and education. AI-powered imaging tools analyze X-rays and dental scans to detect cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues more accurately and quickly than traditional methods. AI can also streamline administrative tasks like appointment scheduling, allowing dental hygienists to focus more on patient care. Example: Using ChatGPT in Dental Hygiene A dental hygienist might use ChatGPT to draft a patient-friendly explanation of a complex treatment plan. For instance, they could ask, “How can I explain the process of scaling and root planing to a nervous patient?” ChatGPT could generate a calming and clear explanation, making patients feel more at ease. AI in Cosmetology Applications and Benefits Cosmetologists can use AI to enhance customer consultations, create personalized beauty regimens, and manage salon operations. AI-driven apps analyze skin and hair conditions, recommending tailored treatments or products for clients. Additionally, AI can assist in designing hairstyles or makeup looks, using virtual try-on technology to help clients visualize results before committing to a service. Example: Using ChatGPT in Cosmetology A cosmetologist might use ChatGPT to write a social media post promoting a new service or product. For example, “Can you help me create a post about the benefits of keratin treatments?” ChatGPT could draft an engaging post, helping attract new clients and build their business. Additionally, a cosmetologist could use ChatGPT to create an outline and script for giving a workshop for seniors on best practices to maintain healthy hair. For instance, they might ask, “Help me draft a detailed outline and talking points for a workshop on senior hair care best practices.” ChatGPT can generate a professional and engaging plan to ensure the workshop is both informative and enjoyable. Additional Benefits of AI for Tradespeople Time-Saving: AI automates repetitive tasks like documentation, inventory management, and scheduling, allowing tradespeople to focus on hands-on work. Cost Efficiency: AI reduces waste and optimizes resource use, saving money on materials and energy. Safety: AI-powered sensors and monitoring tools enhance workplace safety by identifying hazards and ensuring compliance with regulations. Skill Enhancement: By providing instant access to information and best practices, AI empowers tradespeople to continuously improve their skills. Conclusion AI is a game-changer for the trades, offering tools and insights that help professionals work more efficiently, reduce costs, and improve outcomes. Whether it’s ensuring the precision of a weld, optimizing a construction schedule, diagnosing electrical issues, detecting plumbing leaks, enhancing dental hygiene, or improving cosmetology services, AI enhances the capabilities of skilled tradespeople without replacing their expertise. By integrating AI tools like ChatGPT into their daily workflows, tradespeople can solve problems faster, communicate more effectively, and deliver higher-quality results. As AI continues to evolve, its potential to support and empower the trades will only grow, making it an indispensable partner for professionals in the field. CTeLearning's AI for the Workplace curriculum with an industry-based microcredential enables CTE teachers to give their students a career-boosting industry credential in just five hours of class time. This curriculum empowers learners with skills to use AI as a tool, positioning them as the most hireable employees in their fields. Interested in learning more? Click here or call us at 913-764-4272 to schedule a free 20-minute demo of any of our courses and certifications. Citations American Welding Society. (2023). “AI in Welding: Enhancing Precision and Quality.” Retrieved from https://www.aws.org National Association of Home Builders. (2023). “AI Tools in Construction Management.” Retrieved from https://www.nahb.org International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers. (2023). “How AI is Supporting Electricians.” Retrieved from https://www.ibew.org Plumbing Manufacturers International. (2023). “AI Applications in Modern Plumbing.” Retrieved from https://www.safeplumbing.org WebProfessionalsGlobal.org “Congratulating the First Students to Earn the New Certified AI for the Workplace Credential” Retrieved from https://webprofessionalsglobal.org/congratulating-the-first-students-to-earn-the-new-certified-ai-for-the-workplace-credential/ WebProfessionalsGlobal.org “Introducing the AI for the Workplace Certificate “ https://webprofessionalsglobal.org/introducing-the-ai-for-the-workplace-certificate/

Learning from AI Failures: Lessons for Educators and Students

By Steve Waddell • December 30, 2024
Artificial intelligence is shaping the future of work. From healthcare to engineering, AI tools are transforming industries. Our recently released AI for the Workplace course prepares students for the world of AI, no matter where their future educational and professional paths will take them. But AI isn’t perfect. When things go wrong, the lessons can be just as valuable as the successes. Our course shows how while AI is an incredibly powerful tool, it cannot just be trusted blindly without verification. Here, we explore some high-profile AI failures and how they can guide educators in preparing learners for an AI-driven workplace. Misleading Outputs The Failure: In one instance, a generative AI system created false news headlines. These included fabricated stories about public figures, leading to confusion and reputational damage. For example, AI erroneously reported that a CEO had committed suicide, causing panic before the truth was clarified. Similarly, Google’s AI suggested bizarre solutions to common questions, such as adding glue to pizza sauce or eating rocks daily. These errors highlighted how AI can misinterpret data or provide nonsensical advice when not carefully monitored. Takeaway for Educators: Teach students to verify AI outputs. Emphasize the importance of critical thinking when using AI tools. Encourage learners to question results and double-check facts. Thought for Students: Always be the human in the loop. AI is powerful, but your judgment is irreplaceable. Bias in AI: Who’s Left Out? The Failure: Recruitment tools trained on biased data favored men over women or excluded older candidates. In healthcare, algorithms gave lower-risk scores to Black patients compared to white patients with similar needs. These issues arose from biased training data that reflected existing inequalities, reinforcing discrimination instead of eliminating it. For example, an AI system penalized resumes containing words like “women’s” or identifying all-women colleges, systematically disadvantaging female applicants. Takeaway for Educators: Highlight the importance of ethical AI use. Show students how biases in data can lead to unfair outcomes. Discuss how diversity in datasets can improve AI systems. Thought for Students: Question the fairness of AI. Ask who’s included, who’s excluded, and why. Legal Trouble: AI and Fabricated Information The Failure: Lawyers have used AI to cite nonexistent legal cases. One instance led to fines and professional embarrassment after a court discovered fabricated precedents. In one case, an attorney submitted a brief with six false citations provided by AI, complete with fake quotes and docket numbers. These errors arose because the lawyer relied entirely on AI without verifying the accuracy of its outputs. Takeaway for Educators: Stress the importance of validating AI-generated information. Create assignments where students cross-reference AI outputs with credible sources. Thought for Students: AI can assist, but it can also mislead. Your diligence makes all the difference. Automation Gone Awry: The Tesla Incidents The Failure: Tesla’s Full Self-Driving AI faced scrutiny after numerous crashes. Investigations revealed safety concerns tied to AI decision-making in critical moments. In some cases, the system misjudged obstacles, leading to collisions, while in others, it failed to recognize road hazards altogether. These incidents raised questions about the readiness of autonomous systems for widespread adoption and the ethical responsibility of companies deploying such technology. Takeaway for Educators: Use real-world examples to discuss AI’s limitations. Encourage students to think about the ethical implications of autonomous systems. Thought for Students: Ask yourself, “How can we make AI safer and more reliable?” Your innovations could save lives. Missteps in Customer Service The Failure: A chatbot advised a business owner to violate legal regulations. In another case, a virtual assistant provided inaccurate airline policy information, leading to financial disputes. For example, a passenger was misled into buying an expensive ticket under false promises of a refund, resulting in a legal battle. These failures underscore the risks of poorly designed AI systems in customer-facing roles. Takeaway for Educators: Teach students the value of user education. Highlight the risks of relying solely on AI for critical decisions. Thought for Students: An AI answer isn’t the final word. Learn to spot errors and seek clarification when needed. AI and False Promises The Failure: A company used AI-generated content in marketing, leading to celebrity likenesses being used without consent. For instance, Tom Hanks’ image was digitally recreated to promote a product he never endorsed. Similarly, AI-created promotional materials for events failed to deliver on their promises, leaving customers disappointed and businesses facing backlash. Takeaway for Educators: Discuss intellectual property and ethical marketing practices. Teach students how to use AI responsibly in creative projects. Thought for Students: AI can enhance creativity, but integrity matters. Make sure your work respects others’ rights. Drive-Thru Chaos: When AI Fumbles The Failure: An AI system implemented in McDonald’s drive-thrus led to widespread frustration. Customers reported repeated errors in orders, including accidental bulk purchases of items. One incident involved an AI misinterpreting a customer’s order and adding 260 chicken nuggets. These mistakes became viral moments on social media, damaging the brand’s reputation. Takeaway for Educators: Use this as a case study in user experience design. Teach students how to anticipate user needs and design for reliability. Thought for Students: Technology should make life easier, not harder. Think about how your designs impact real people. Ethical Red Flags in AI Training The Failure: Microsoft’s chatbot became offensive after being exposed to toxic online interactions. This highlighted the risks of using unfiltered data to train AI models. Within hours, the chatbot began spewing racist and offensive language, forcing Microsoft to shut it down. The failure demonstrated the importance of curating training data and monitoring AI behavior. Takeaway for Educators: Teach data ethics and the importance of curation in AI training. Discuss the consequences of neglecting proper oversight. Thought for Students: The quality of an AI system depends on its training data. Be mindful of what you feed your algorithms. Final Thoughts AI has the power to revolutionize the workplace, but only if used wisely. These failures serve as reminders that humans must guide AI development. For educators, these stories are opportunities to prepare students for thoughtful, ethical, and informed AI use. Remember: Mistakes aren’t the end—they’re a chance to learn. Equip your students to face AI challenges head-on and contribute to a better, smarter future. Our new course, AI for the Workplace , helps educators and learners navigate this evolving landscape. This program provides an industry-recognized certificate and equips students with practical skills to harness AI as a versatile tool across various career paths, trades, and technologies. The course bridges the gap between understanding AI concepts and applying them effectively in real-world scenarios. Want to learn more? Click here or call us at 913-764-4272 to schedule a free 20-minute demo of any of our courses and certifications.

Equipping Students to Work in the World of AI

By Steve Waddell • November 7, 2024
CTeLearning is proud to introduce the AI for the Workplace Course and Certificate . The landscape of work is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and many individuals are struggling to keep up. AI is fundamentally transforming how we work. In the early days of computer science, proficiency in coding was essential to accomplish tasks. As technology advanced, applications emerged that allowed users to perform complex calculations without needing to write code, exemplified by tools like VisiCalc (the first commercially available spreadsheet). Today, we are witnessing a similar shift. Just a year or two ago, interacting with AI often required technical knowledge to program the system. Now, AI tools enable users to communicate in natural language, making them more accessible. However, to maximize the effectiveness of these tools, individuals must excel in communication. Understanding how to craft effective prompts and engage in “prompt engineering” is crucial for guiding AI to deliver desired outcomes. Ultimately, the quality of your communication will determine your success with these technologies. Created in partnership with Web Professionals Global , the industry association for all things web, this course and certification prepares students for the future. Certificate Overview This course and certificate program does not focus on coding the next AI system. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of communication skills to achieve optimal results. For example, an entrepreneur may use AI to conduct a SWOT analysis of their business. In agribusiness, professionals might employ AI to analyze new regulations. An automotive technician could use AI to generate a resume and cover letter tailored to their ideal job. Marketers might leverage AI to brainstorm and organize strategies for new clients. Teachers can utilize AI to develop grading rubrics for project-based learning activities. Landscape designers may consult AI for plant selections in challenging environments. Construction contractors might rely on AI to create promotional materials as they pursue new certifications. Web designers can use AI to refine messaging for specific target audiences, while animators and game designers can enhance their creative processes with AI-generated script concepts and character backstory. Success in the workplace has always required a combination of skills. Those with strong technical abilities are consistently in demand, but individuals who possess both technical and soft skills often ascend to leadership positions. The integration of AI into professional settings represents a new blend of these competencies, akin to coding but utilizing natural language to instruct AI on its tasks. As the demand for effective communication with AI tools continues to rise, the AI for the Workplace Course and Certificate stands at the forefront of this transformation. This credential is designed to empower professionals across various industries and job levels to harness the full potential of AI. It is grounded in the latest research and offers tailored learning paths. Participants will not only gain theoretical knowledge but also practical skills in effective AI interaction. Upon completion, graduates will be well-equipped to leverage their new skills and certification in their chosen career paths. Our course includes a tool called PromptScout, which gives your students access to a database of 5,360 editable prompts across 63 different industries. They can find, edit, and use these prompts in their favorite AI tool to generate any solution they need, offering students a firsthand look at how AI can support them in any career pathway. This is a micro-credential course that can be completed in just over five hours of class time, making it an ideal enhancement to any career course or program of study. No prior experience with AI is needed for either the facilitator or the student. The self-directed learning is auto-graded and requires little to no prep time, and facilitator training is provided free of charge. AI should primarily be viewed as a tool. For most of us, the future lies in leveraging AI to enhance productivity, foster creativity, and drive innovation across all aspects of our careers. While there is a notable push to train AI programmers to develop the next generation of AI systems, 99% of the broader workplace / work world/ jobs needs individuals who can seamlessly integrate AI tools into their workflows, utilizing these powerful capabilities to accelerate their work. As employers seek to hire top talent, they are increasingly looking for individuals who can work quickly, efficiently, and accurately. Just as you would not trust a mechanic with your Tesla if their only tool was a sledgehammer, or allow a heart surgeon to operate on a loved one with only a saw, it is essential to equip yourself with the right skills and tools to thrive in today’s evolving workplace. The AI for the Workplace Certificate prepares learners to succeed in the modern world of AI, no matter what industry they are in. Learn More Reach out to us today to find out more about our brand new AI for the Workplace Course and Certificate by clicking here or calling us at 913-764-4272.
Share by: