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The Technology & Design Institute

Calling all computer scientists, artists, gamers, engineers, thinkers and makers! Join us June 24th - July 2nd, 2023 @ Champlain College in Burlington, VT

"This summer I attended the Technology & Design Institute at Champlain College. Saying that this was a life changing experience is an understatement. This was one of the best decisions of my life. These eight jam-packed days were absolutely amazing.”

About the Technology and Design Institute

Want to learn new tools and approaches to design and technology?

Join like-minded young people from across the state to learn new technologies and think about the impact technology has on our world, both today and in the future. Hear from professionals in the field about possible career pathways, play (and make) games, visit some of our industry professionals in the area and spend time in Champlain College’s state-of-the-art computer labs immersing yourself in learning.

Each summer, we offer intensive short courses in a variety of topics, which may include: arduino microcontrollers, digital painting and illustration, cybersecurity, programming, game design, to name a few. We balance out the time spent in the computer labs by making time for play, with lots of options for everyone: our ever-growing pop-up maker lab, D&D, MTG, pop-up jam sessions, late night Humans vs Zombies, field games, silkscreening, photography, and more.

Explore, learn and create alongside tech-world professionals, professors, and a whole host of young designers and programmers like you! What will you make?

Learn why Vermont Tech Jam calls this Institute a “Geekette’s Dream!” Immerse yourself in some of the most advanced technology our state has to offer, all while enjoying the gorgeous views of Lake Champlain and the amenities of Vermont’s most innovative communities.

June 24th – July 2nd, 2023 @ Champlain College in Burlington, VT

For information regarding tuition, please click here.

At This Institute You Will

  • Choose two subjects to study intensely for the week, which could include digital design and illustration skills, programming microcontrollers, designing games, or learning about cybersecurity… the possibilities are endless!
  • Have access to amazing tools and spaces, including our pop-up maker lab.
  • Collaborate as designers and creators on projects that excite you.
  • Play games!
  • Learn about the technical, artistic, and business aspects of technology and design.
  • Explore college options and possible career paths.
  • Network with industry professionals.
  • Make lifelong friends with peers who share your interests.
  • Have the time of your life!

So how does it all work?

Every day is a unique experience filled with expert-led instruction, hands-on investigation, field trips, and immersive learning. We work to build a community around our experiences and share in our passion for everything we explore.

**The schedule is slightly different each year and announced when you arrive!

GIV’s supportive Institute structure is endlessly enriching, empowering, and engaging.

An Example of a Day at the Technology & Design Institute

7:30 AM: Breakfast
8:30 AM: Morning Meeting
9:00 AM: Morning Tech Immersion Class
12:00 PM: Lunch and Free Time
1:00 PM: Afternoon Tech Immersion Class
4:00 PM: Student Choice Workshops
5:00 PM: Dinner
6:30 PM: Guest Speaker Presentations
8:00 PM: Evening Social Activities
10:00 PM: End of Day

Check out the vibe from Technology & Design 2022!

Technology and Design Faculty

Shannon Walters is passionate about using technology and the arts to create, collaborate, communicate and connect in new ways. She brings with her years of experience integrating technology as a Teacher Librarian and Technology Integration Specialist at The Integrated Arts Academy in Burlington. In addition to serving as Technology Concerns Chair for the Vermont School Library Association, she has served as a “Maker Space” lead and instructor for the Create, Make, Learn Institute; Tarrant Code Camp; and Dynamic Landscapes state technology conference, as well as faculty at the University of Vermont.

Robin brings a wealth of experience to GIV as the Program Director for Champlain’s master’s program in Emergent Media. Prior to her role at Champlain, Robin was co-chair of the Design & Creative Media program at the Center for Technology, Essex; and has run multiple community art programs to support young people through art-mentoring. She also just concluded her tenure as vice-chair of the board of trustees for the Vermont Arts Council. She is passionate about emergent media theory and practice, as well as graphic design, photography, and image-making. She has completed research in a variety of topics, most notably focused on the intersection of technology and educational pedagogy.

Gain Hands on Experience with Game Design, Programming, Graphic Design, and More!