By Andi Anderson
Purdue Extension is transforming agricultural education with its new Digital Ag Van, a mobile classroom designed to bring the latest technology and hands-on learning experiences to communities throughout Indiana.
This innovative vehicle serves as a state-of-the-art educational space, equipped to showcase advanced digital agriculture tools and techniques.
“The Digital Ag Van is not just a vehicle; it’s like a Transformer,” said Adam Shanks, digital agriculture and natural resources curriculum lead at Purdue Extension. “It can be taken to different locations, folded up, and rolled out.”
The van unfolds into an interactive learning environment featuring advanced drone technology, cutting-edge IT equipment, scouting and applicator drone capabilities, and digital agriculture displays.
Designed for flexibility, the Digital Ag Van is available for educators, specialists, and community leaders to rent, making it a versatile tool for field days, training sessions, and other educational events. Its compact design allows it to travel easily, bringing the classroom directly to the field.
Purdue Extension is finalizing a user-friendly booking system, accessible via a QR code, to simplify scheduling and check-out of the van for various events. This streamlined process will make it easier for educators to integrate the Digital Ag Van into their programming.
The Digital Ag Van is supported by key sponsors, including the Indiana Soybean Alliance, Indiana Corn Marketing Council, Conservation Cropping Systems Initiative, and the Purdue Pesticide Program. Their contributions reflect the agricultural community’s dedication to advancing education and technology in farming.
By bringing cutting-edge resources directly to Indiana’s fields, the Digital Ag Van is poised to enhance agricultural learning and encourage the adoption of new technologies, making it an invaluable asset to the farming community.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Education