Immersive Learning in Digital Agriculture ~ PEI High School Students Experience Virtual Livestock Farming
Posted by Stephanie Rogers on
November 27, 2024
in
News
Students from Kinkora Regional HS and Kensington Intermediate Senior HS in PEI toured campus recently through the office of Community Education
Dalhousie University’s Agricultural Campus in Truro recently hosted an event blending education with cutting-edge technology.
Over 40 Grade 11 students and their teachers from Kinkora Regional High School and Kensington Intermediate Senior High School in Prince Edward Island were welcomed for an immersive experience into the world of digital livestock farming.
Organized by Jessica Fogarty, Manager of Community Education, the campus tour aimed to inspire the next generation of agricultural scientists and innovators. The event provided students with hands-on exposure to artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and smart farming systems, showcasing how these technologies are revolutionizing modern agriculture.
“We wanted to show students that agriculture today is a fusion of tradition and technology,” said Jessica Fogarty. “By engaging them with interactive experiences, we’re planting the seeds for future innovation.”
The day began with a warm welcome from the Faculty, setting the tone for an exciting exploration of agricultural technology. The graduate students of the Animal Science Department and the MooAnalytica Research team led by Professor Suresh Neethirajan facilitated a series of interactive activities. These sessions were designed to demystify complex concepts and demonstrate real-world applications.
In state-of-the-art laboratories, students participated in activities that brought AI in agriculture to life. They observed how machine learning algorithms can analyze livestock health, predict illnesses, and optimize feeding schedules. The hands-on sessions allowed them to interact with technology that enhances efficiency and promotes sustainable farming practices.
“I had no idea that farming involved so much technology,” shared a student from Kinkora Regional High School. “Learning about AI and machine learning in this context was eye-opening.”
A highlight of the visit was the introduction to the metaverse of animal farming through mixed and virtual reality (VR). Equipped with VR headsets, students were transported into virtual barns and pastures, interacting with digital avatars of cows, sheep, and chickens. This immersive experience demonstrated how smart farming technologies enable remote monitoring and management of livestock.
“It was incredible to see how VR can be used in farming,” said a student from Kensington Intermediate Senior High School. “It felt like stepping into the future of agriculture.”
Delving deeper into animal behavior, the students were introduced to the study of vocalization calls of farm animals. Using acoustic analysis tools, they learned how specific sounds indicate different states such as stress, hunger, or contentment. This session highlighted the importance of animal welfare and how technology can enhance understanding between humans and animals.
“Realizing that animals have their own ways of communicating was fascinating,” remarked another student participant. “It adds a whole new dimension to how we care for them.”
To reinforce the day’s lessons, the students participated in a lively quiz that tested their newfound knowledge. Covering topics from AI applications to animal vocalizations, the quiz fostered a spirit of friendly competition and camaraderie among the students. The visit also included tours of the campus facilities and several farms, including the Ruminant Animal Centre. Here, students witnessed sustainable farming practices and advanced livestock care techniques.
This event aligns with Dalhousie University’s commitment to educational outreach and fostering interest in STEM fields and agriculture. By connecting young learners with real-world applications of technology, the university aims to ignite a passion for agriculture and encourage students to consider future careers in this evolving field.
Professor Suresh Neethirajan emphasized the significance of such initiatives: “Engaging with these bright young minds is crucial. They are the future of agriculture and we hope to inspire them to lead with innovation and sustainability.”
Teachers accompanying the students observed the profound impact of the visit. “Our students have gained invaluable insights into how technology is shaping agriculture,” commented one of the teachers. “It’s an experience that will stay with them for a long time.” The MooAnalytica Research Group takes pride in being at the forefront of agricultural innovation. The Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture looks forward to welcoming more students to explore how technology is transforming the industry. Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Agriculture invites schools and students to participate in upcoming events and programs. By engaging with pioneers in agricultural technology, students can be at the forefront of a movement that’s redefining how we understand and interact with the natural world.
