Retro AI Lab
Unlock Creativity and STEM Proficiency: Join Our Arcade Innovation Course for Schools and Ignite Student Passion in Retro Gaming and AI Integration!
Unlock Creativity and STEM Proficiency: Join Our Arcade Innovation Course for Schools and Ignite Student Passion in Retro Gaming and AI Integration!
What Makes Us Different?
At RetroAILabs.com, we’re not just another online course provider. We bridge the gap between traditional education and the digital future, offering an unparalleled learning journey that combines the richness of hands-on experience with the cutting-edge capabilities of artificial intelligence. Our program, “Arcade Innovators: Build, Design, Code,” is designed to empower high school and early college students with a curriculum that stands out in today’s tech-centric world.
Hands-On STEM Education
Unlike typical online courses that focus solely on theoretical knowledge, our program encourages students to roll up their sleeves and dive into the real-world process of building, coding, and designing. From woodworking and electronics to graphic design and AI-assisted development, we cover it all.
Learning with AI
Elevating project-based learning to a new level, our course culminates in an auction of the students’ arcade cabinets. This initiative not only imparts fundamental lessons in entrepreneurship and marketing but also empowers students to contribute directly to their schools. The funds raised through these auctions can be utilized to sustain the program itself or to support other school projects and initiatives. This approach not only encourages a spirit of giving back but also enables students to see the tangible impact of their efforts on their school community, fostering a cycle of innovation and support.
A Tangible Outcome
The climax of our course isn’t just a certificate; it’s a physical, fully functional arcade cabinet designed and built by the students themselves. This tangible outcome provides a sense of accomplishment and a physical testament to their hard work and creativity.
Sustaining Education and Empowering Schools
Our course goes beyond traditional project-based learning by culminating in an auction of the student-designed arcade cabinets. This innovative approach does more than teach students the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and marketing; it provides a direct avenue for them to contribute to the financial health and diversity of their school’s programs. Proceeds from these auctions can be allocated not just to fund this course for future students, but also to support other essential school projects or initiatives. This creates a cycle of investment that benefits the entire school community, making the program a self-sustaining ecosystem that nurtures the next generation of innovators and creators.
Arcade Innovators: Build, Design, Code
Beginner • Design
Overview
Dive into a hands-on STEM experience unlike any other with “Arcade Innovators: Build, Design, Code.” This innovative course combines the thrill of arcade game creation with practical skills in technology, design, and entrepreneurship. Students engage with AI tools like ChatGPT, master graphic design with GIMP, and develop coding prowess using Python, all while constructing a functional arcade cabinet.
Beyond technical skills, this course fosters creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork, culminating in a unique opportunity to give back to the community. By auctioning off their finished arcade cabinets, students can fund future educational projects, making this program a self-sustaining addition to any school’s curriculum.
Educational Outcomes
- AI Integration Techniques with ChatGPT
- Graphic Design Basics using GIMP
- Programming Fundamentals with Python
- Build Your Own Arcade Cabinet
- Electronics and Wiring for Arcade Systems
- Game Development and Testing
- Creative Problem-Solving Skills
- Entrepreneurship through Project Auctions
- Marketing Strategies for Your Projects
- Contributing to School Funding Initiatives
Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Arcade Cabinet Design and Construction
- AI Considerations: Introduce AI’s role in modern gaming and design, including how AI algorithms can enhance game mechanics and user experience.
- Objective: Introduce students to the history, significance, and basic concepts of arcade cabinet design and construction, integrating AI perspectives.
- Activities (added):
- Discussion on the impact of AI in the evolution of arcade games and design software.
Module 2: AI Integration in Projects
- AI Considerations: Highlight the specific AI tools and platforms that will be used throughout the course, setting the foundation for their application.
- Objective: Provide foundational knowledge on AI’s use in enhancing project development, focusing on design, coding, and problem-solving.
- Activities (added):
- Exploring AI tools for creative design and ideation, including experimenting with AI-generated game concepts.
Module 3: Artwork and Design
- AI Considerations: Emphasize the use of AI for generating creative design elements and enhancing artwork with AI-based tools.
- Objective: Equip students with skills to create custom artwork, leveraging AI for inspiration and refinement.
- Activities (added):
- Using AI to generate ideas and elements for custom artwork, and to provide feedback on designs.
Module 4: Coding and Game Development
- AI Considerations: Focus on AI’s role in game development, including AI-generated content, game testing, and debugging.
- Objective: Teach students to develop simple games, incorporating AI to streamline coding and enhance gameplay.
- Activities (added):
- Integrating AI characters or elements into game development, using AI for code optimization and testing.
Module 5: Woodworking and Cabinet Assembly
- AI Considerations: Discuss the potential of AI in optimizing design for manufacturability and assembly processes.
- Objective: Guide students through building the physical structure, including AI insights for efficient construction.
- Activities (added):
- Using AI to assist in problem-solving during assembly, such as optimizing layouts or suggesting improvements.
Module 6: Electronics and Wiring
- AI Considerations: Introduce the concept of AI in enhancing user interfaces and interactions within electronic projects.
- Objective: Introduce students to the electronics involved, with AI enhancing the understanding and functionality of components.
- Activities (added):
- Exploring AI applications in electronics for dynamic control schemes or troubleshooting.
Module 7: Project Completion and Customization
- AI Considerations: Highlight how AI can personalize gaming experiences and assist in final project customization.
- Objective: Focus on finalizing projects, using AI for final touches and ensuring the uniqueness of their arcade cabinet.
- Activities (added):
- Utilizing AI for final design tweaks and to ensure the custom artwork aligns with best practices in design and aesthetics.
Module 8: Marketing and Entrepreneurship
- AI Considerations: Explore the use of AI in marketing strategies, customer engagement, and analyzing market trends.
- Objective: Teach students the basics of marketing and entrepreneurship, leveraging AI for market analysis and sales strategies.
- Activities (added):
- Using AI tools to analyze potential markets, create engaging marketing content, and simulate sales strategies.
Comparison to Typical Classes:
- Integrated Learning: Merges STEM, arts, and business into a single, cohesive curriculum.
- Project-Based: Centers around building a tangible arcade cabinet for a hands-on learning experience.
- Flexible Timing: Fits within a typical school semester, adaptable to school schedules.
- Upfront Provision: Schools receive technology and resources at the start, ensuring readiness for each phase.
$1499
Details
Intermediate
1-2 weeks per module:
Enough time for detailed exploration of each topic, including lectures, hands-on projects, and evaluations.
Updated: 2/28/2024
Prerequisites
Internet Browser Access
Smartboard
Assembly Storage Space
Included With Every Class
Windows 11 Mini PC
Comes preloaded with necessary software and resources for the class, ensuring a seamless learning experience.
Bar Top Arcade Kit
Includes quality wood pieces and a cam lock assembly system for easy and secure construction of your arcade cabinet.
Custom Graphics Wrap
Durable, laminated custom graphics pre-applied to boards, complete with T-molding for a professional finish.
Steam Gift Card
Enables the purchase of licensed arcade titles, such as Pac-Man, to enhance the cabinet’s game library for resale.
Lesson Plan
Comprehensive lesson plans guide educators through each step of the course, ensuring effective teaching and learning outcomes.
AI Prompt Examples
Includes examples and outputs to facilitate AI learning and integration, enhancing creativity and problem-solving skills.
Project Documentation Templates
Templates to help document the design and development process, ensuring organized and reflective learning.
Online Support Forum
Access to a dedicated online community for real-time assistance, sharing ideas, and collaboration among participants.
Digital Resource Library
Extensive access to tutorials, software guides, and project inspiration, supporting a wide range of learning styles and interests.
Semester Access
All Access Pass
All Access Pass
All Access Pass
Unlock Your School’s Potential: Purchase Now and Empower the Next Generation of Innovators with Hands-On STEM Learning!
Access to All Resources for the semester
$1499
- Comprehensive Course Materials
- Complete Arcade Cabinet Kit
- Premium Electronics Pack
- $60 Steam Gift Card Included
- Exclusive Discount on Additional Kits
★★★★★
“Transformed my classroom! Engaging, practical STEM learning that excited and motivated every student.”
Igor Landry
★★★★★
“Investment in future innovators paid off. Enhanced our STEM curriculum and school community spirit.”
Angela Charlton
★★★★★
“Best class ever! Building and coding our arcade was challenging, fun, and super rewarding.”
Kason Espinosa
Get In Touch or Enroll
Ready to Get Started?
Ready to Ignite Innovation? Contact Us Today to Launch Your Educational Journey!