SWERVE: NII is making a difference when it comes to innovation and learning

Technology, and digital technology, is changing the way we see the world.

From visiting the international space station to watching Cirque du Soleil, virtual technology immerses the user into the centre of another world.

In Southampton (ON), the Coliseum arena was recently transformed into a hub of technology, medical science, robotics and innovation as SWERVE, hosted by the Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII), introduced the public of all ages to the future of technology and learning.

From September 9th -11th, the NII welcomed visitors of all ages to learn and experience the many facets of the future of technology.

On Friday, September 9th, some 600 elementary and secondary students visited the Innovation Institute’s step into the future.  Students however, appeared to easily accept the ideas of robotics, coding and science.  For many, they have already been introduced to the concepts through the NII’s classroom programs that have been carried out in Grey, Bruce and Huron counties.

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Many adults visiting SWERVE however, appeared to be amazed at the advancements that technology has made.  They readily tried the virtual equipment that took them into forests, allowed them to try their artistic talents or become part of creating the anatomy of the human body.

The three-day event was a step into the future for many and a demonstration of how the NII is making a difference when it comes to innovation.

“While there is creativity and innovation behind these technologies, there are also deeper questions,” said Bruce Wallace, President & CEO of the NII.  “Should we welcome or fear machines that are smarter than us.  Should we worry about the loss of privacy?  Imagining the future is part of what it means to be human. SWERVE is about making sure that we use technologies for good.”

“The NII is committed to ensure that everyone can engage in these emerging technologies,” added Wallace.  “That’s why SWERVE has been free and for all ages and was designed to let people know about things like energy storage, isotopes, robotics, 3D printing and the sensory experience of virtual reality.  These technologies will let us build better lives, better communities and a better world.”

Bruce County Museum featured an interactive digital display