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Teens learn tech skills through ASU

His closely cropped portrait on the computer screen only partly portrays who Daniel Salazar, 14, is.

In one of his assignments for Conexiones, an Arizona State University summer technology program, the Queen Creek High School freshman compiled a more complete self portrait with brief but meaningful phrases that describe how he views himself.

At the top of the list, in order, those read: “A student; a son; a future graduate; a Mexican; a grandchild.”

“That’s how I see myself, like that,” Daniel says, nodding.

He is one of 48 students participating in Conexiones at ASU’s east campus in Mesa. For 16 years, the one-week summer workshop has taught students in grades 7-12 how to use the latest in technology tools, from software programs to recording devices.

Designed specifically for first-generation children in underserved communities, the program is supported by the university’s Applied Learning Technologies Institute and is partly funded by the Arizona Department of Education. Each summer, ASU’s east and west campuses host the program. This year, it drew students from school districts in Avondale, Tolleson, Mesa, Florence and Queen Creek.

CREATIVE LEARNING

In the intensive workshop, students completed a variety of projects that required knowledge of using the equipment, most of which students had never touched before, like digital cameras. The experience also exposed them to a university setting.

The assignments had visual and audible components, and required students to practice unfamiliar skills, like interview techniques and strategies. In addition to self-portraits, assignments included themes that dealt with graffiti as art, racism, gangs and one entitled, “We are Latino.”

“They’re engaged. It’s meaningful and they’re interested. Those are very heartfelt things. They are topics they are passionate about,” says ASU instructional specialist Sally Martinez, who along with Dale Parcell, director of K-12 community outreach for ASU, works to help make the program happen.

Queen Creek High School freshman Jessica Castaneda, 14, enjoyed working with fellow students and being exposed to new experiences.

“I got to know computers a lot better and do things I never did before. I learned a lot of new things,” says Jessica, who wants to go to college and become a nurse.

Conexiones teacher Susana Turowski says that students picked up new lessons quickly, despite initial trepidation.

“They didn’t want to mess things up. But we let them know we were there to work with them,” says Turowski, who implemented a similar program at Willis Junior High School in Chandler. “They’re learning a lot of team-building. They’re less afraid to try new things, and they know they can do anything they want to do.”

The workshop culminates with a Saturday evening gallery opening featuring students’ works. About half of families attend, not because parents don’t care, but because of issues with transportation or work. However, some parents don’t go because they fear questions regarding their legal status. Martinez says students are aware of this reality and give brief and plausible reasons as to why mom and dad cannot attend.

Keeping first-generation children inspired to finish school and earn a college degree is a common challenge educators face. Until the DREAM Act becomes law, Martinez will continue to join colleagues in encouraging students to reach for the stars.

“They haven’t given up on that hope,” she says. “My job as an educator is to encourage them. You don’t give up on that dream, you can still get it.”

For information on the program or to see students’ work, visit www.conexiones.asu.edu.