Microsoft Corp. and the National FFA Organization on Wednesday announced the national expansion of FarmBeats for Students, an educational program integrating smart sensors, data science, and artificial intelligence to teach precision agriculture in classrooms.<\/p>\n
Starting today, FFA teachers and students throughout the United States, including FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools, will receive a classroom set of FarmBeats for Students kits free of charge. The kits include ready-to-use sensor systems along with curriculum for teachers and are designed for classrooms of all kinds; no prior technical experience is required.<\/p>\n
More and more farmers are adopting advanced technology, including automating systems such as tractors and harvesters and using drones and data analysis to intervene early against pests and disease, to maximize crop yield, optimize resource usage, and adjust to changing weather patterns. Gaining hands-on experience with machine automation, data science, and AI will help American agricultural students remain competitive in the global market.<\/p>\n Using the FarmBeats for Students kits and free curriculum, students build environmental sensor systems and use AI to monitor soil moisture and detect nutrient deficiencies \u2014 allowing them to understand what is happening with their plants and make data-driven decisions in real time. Students can adapt the kit to challenges unique to their region \u2014 such as drought, frost and pests \u2014 providing them with practical experience in tackling real-world issues in their hometowns.<\/p>\n \u201cBy teaming up with FFA to bring FarmBeats for Students to students across the country, we hope to inspire the next generation of agriculture leaders and equip them with the skills to tackle any and all challenges as they guide us into the future,\u201d said Mary Snapp, Microsoft vice president, Strategic Initiatives.<\/p>\n \u201cOur partnership with Microsoft exemplifies the power of collaboration in addressing industry needs while fostering personal and professional growth among students,\u201d said Christine White, chief program officer, National FFA Organization. \u201cSupporting agricultural education and leadership development is crucial for shaping the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Programs like this equip students with technical knowledge, confidence and adaptability to thrive in diverse and evolving industries. Investing in these young minds today sets the stage for a more sustainable, innovative and resilient agricultural future.\u201d<\/p>\n![\"market](\"https:\/\/www.agdaily.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/02\/bg-smartphone-farmer.jpg\")