Pittsburgh After-School Programs Getting A High-Tech Makeover

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- Some of Pittsburgh's after-school programs are getting a high-tech makeover. It's called "Rec2Tech"... and the programs focus on STEM learning.

For one week, the Magee Rec Center in Greenfield is transformed into a combination technical/medical lab.

Dr. Andre Samuel of the Citizen Science Lab and science teacher Venneasha Davis share scientific insights through hands-on learning.

"So who's ready to paint their hearts?" Dr. Samuel asks his team of seven to twelve-year-olds. "Who had purple?"

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His young "team" paints the chambers of a three-dimensional heart. It's a fun way to learn.

"We sort of reinforce the importance of technology, and how technology is used to study anatomical parts and even used to make replacement parts," he says.

Venneasha Davis's team creates jewelry with another 3-D printer.

"It's just giving them 21st century skills that they can use, in and outside of the classroom," she explains.

The Rec2Tech program kicked off Monday with a news conference at Phillips Rec Center in Carrick, where 3-D printing and gardening go hand in hand. The goal is make it possible for everyone to have access to digital learning. The handiwork of kids at five city rec centers will be displayed Saturday in Schenley Plaza.