David Martin utilises technology to drive community projects

Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education plays a crucial role in preparing individuals for the technological landscape, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability.

David Martin, multimedia specialist and founder of Schooltoonz Visual and Interactive Design Studios, has been utilising STEM technology to advance and encompass ongoing development and integration of scientific technology across various fields.

Advancements in STEM have had a profound impact on our everyday lives. From turning on the faucet to turning off the lights, technological innovations are seen in every aspect of what we do.

According to Martin, this applies not only to what has been achieved in the past and present, but also future opportunities to improve and enhance the human condition and experience. It is possible that STEM-related jobs are expected to increase by nearly 800,000 by 2031, making these fields a lucrative career path for many aspiring leaders and innovators looking to make a difference in a growing industry.

From artificial intelligence to self-driving cars to GPS, the ways in which technology has advanced are seemingly endless. Technology has been integrated into every aspect of life, making it the largest global industry, and every day it sees continued application, expansion, and success.

With each area of science, technology, engineering and math seeing significant advancements over the decades, Martin, has embarked upon several community projects, aimed at improving the lives of individuals at all levels of society.

TRAINING PROJECT

One of his projects include the creation of a STEAM Education Workbook into a comprehensive Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Level 2 curriculum tailored for Caribbean students ages 14 to 16 years, as well as learners across the Global South.

This version, he said, aligns with regional TVET standards, and includes hands-on practical assessments, with the integration of Caribbean culture and context.

“Our aim is to equip young people with 21st-century skills while fostering innovation, resilience, and a strong sense of identity rooted in their local and regional realities,” Martin said.

“As a learning technologist I am always developing novel and exciting learning experiences, such as course design and learning instruments and assessments. Our long-term objective is to create sustainable pathways for Caribbean youth to enter and thrive in the digital creative industries, particularly animation, multimedia production, and interactive media,” Martin said.

“This includes developing accessible training programmes, integrating industry-relevant skills into school curricula, and fostering regional studios and networks that can compete on the world stage. By investing in this sector, we not only empower our youth but also position the Caribbean as a vibrant hub for digital innovation and cultural storytelling,” he added.

These projects are of utmost importance to the development of children within Jamaica’s education system. The stakes he said, are incredibly high, especially as we navigate a rapidly changing, multipolar world.

NURTURING YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

“No effort should be spared in preparing our youth to face the challenges ahead. This requires strong social partnerships, involving parents, schools, churches, and the wider community. When these key stakeholders work together, we create a support system that nurtures not just academic growth, but also values, creativity, and resilience,” Martin said.

“It is through this collective effort that we can truly empower the next generation to thrive and lead in both local and global contexts. As the saying goes, ‘a high tide lifts all ships’ and by lifting up our youth, we uplift our entire society,” he added.

Another production of interest by Martin is the ‘ROUN THE JERK PAN’ web series, with recipes for love and peace aimed at managing conflicts in everyday situations through active peer meditation.

Martin has also created a ‘GUIDANCE’ Magazine Animated series designed for video, radio and print. It is designed to teach positive social values to teenagers. Each episode consists of a theme-based skit and a commentary.

“Each short will be done by teens at various age ranges in order to fulfil the purpose of the show: ‘teens being good role models for teens. Skit and commentary will be done in a modern creative manner involving the use of special effects animation and non-traditional techniques designed to grab the attention of the demographic,” Martin said.

Energy and sustainability he said, are and will continue to be a trending topic, as the Caribbean is in a unique position to implement energy policies that can encourage economic growth. This programme will essentially bring the conversation of climate change, energy and sustainability to the living rooms, computers and mobile devices of the masses.

“Digital technology has played a central role in enhancing these projects, from content creation to delivery. We have used digital tools for curriculum design gamification, interactive workbook development, and virtual collaboration with educators across the region,” Martin said.

“Importantly, we have also integrated AI in several ways from generating adaptive learning content and personalised feedback to streamlining assessment design and analytics. This allows us to make the learning experience more engaging, accessible, and responsive to students’ individual needs, especially in underserved areas of the Caribbean and the wider Global South,” he added.

keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com