Introduction:
In March 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the DIA Youth Innovation Lab Regional Hackathon titled "Hack 4 Change". This hackathon brought together creative minds and technology enthusiasts to design innovative solutions addressing challenges in the realms of Technology, Creative Economies, and Climate Action. With the motivation to test my app design skills and embrace the thrill of hackathon deadlines, I formed a team with my talented fiancé, and together we embarked on a remarkable journey under the name "Sundae Bytes." Little did we know that our project, an app called "Edventure," would become one of the winning entries, leaving a lasting impact on both ourselves and the world around us.
The Purpose of "Edventure":
"Edventure" is an application that harnesses the power of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to offer immersive virtual tours of popular landmarks and tourist destinations. Our vision was to create an educational platform that transcended geographical boundaries and made field trips accessible to students from all walks of life. Furthermore, we recognized the environmental benefits of reduced travel and sought to contribute to the preservation of these awe-inspiring locations by minimizing physical foot traffic.
The Development Process:
To develop "Edventure," we utilized cutting-edge technologies such as AR and VR. Our team leveraged the flexibility and efficiency of Flutter, a popular cross-platform development framework, to create a seamless and user-friendly app. Additionally, we employed Polycam, a powerful tool for 3D scanning, to capture realistic representations of the botanical gardens that served as the centerpiece of our virtual tours.
Overcoming Challenges:
The hackathon presented its fair share of challenges, but we tackled each obstacle head-on. One significant hurdle was capturing the AR aspect in real-life scale. Unfortunately, inclement weather made it difficult to scan the 3D plants and items accurately. The pouring rain delayed our progress, and when it finally subsided, the setting sun during golden hour affected the LIDAR scanning of the foliage. However, our determination and perseverance prevailed, and we managed to achieve a satisfactory outcome that reflected the beauty of the gardens.
A Multifaceted Solution:
What set "Edventure" apart from other entries was its multifaceted approach, addressing all three focus areas of the hackathon: Technology, Creative Economies, and Climate Action. By utilizing technology for educational purposes, "Edventure" bridged the gap between traditional classroom learning and real-world experiences. Moreover, it contributed to climate action by reducing carbon emissions associated with travel to these destinations, as well as aiding in the preservation of these places by minimizing physical foot traffic. Additionally, our app became a platform for sharing and promoting the cultural richness of Trinidad and Tobago to a global audience.
The Sweet Taste of Victory:
When the winners were announced, I experienced an overwhelming sense of joy and accomplishment. Among the numerous talented competitors, our team, "Sundae Bytes," was chosen as one of the three winners. It was an affirmation of our hard work, dedication, and innovative thinking. The recognition and validation we received have further fueled our passion for pursuing projects like "Edventure" and making a tangible impact on society.
Future Prospects:
Winning the hackathon has opened doors of opportunity and provided a platform for us to continue developing "Edventure." The positive reception and feedback we received have reinforced our belief in its potential to shape the way we experience and learn about our world. Moving forward, we are committed to refining the app.
Conclusion:
Participating in the DIA Youth Innovation Lab Regional Hackathon was an exhilarating experience, filled with challenges, triumphs, and the joy of creating something meaningful. Winning the hackathon with our app, "Edventure," was a testament to the power of technology, creativity, and collaboration. As we look ahead, we are excited about the possibilities that lie in further developing and refining our project, with the ultimate aim of revolutionizing the way we explore and learn about the world around us.
In the end, it is not just about winning a competition; it is about the journey, the learnings, and the impact we can make. The DIA Youth Innovation Lab Hackathon has ignited a fire within us to pursue personal projects for the sheer joy of creating, and we are excited to embrace this new chapter in our lives.