Microsoft and FFA Help Students Use Smart Sensors and AI to Learn About the Future of Farming

Michigan Farm News reports that Microsoft and the National FFA Organization have announced they’ll expand FarmBeats for Students, a cutting-edge educational program integrating smart sensors, data science and artificial intelligence (AI) to teach precision agriculture in classrooms.

FFA teachers and students throughout the U.S. — 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, with no prior technical experience is required.

“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,” Microsoft wrote.

“Gaining hands-on experience with machine automation, data science and AI will help American agricultural students remain competitive in the global market.”

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, 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 — such as drought, frost and pests — providing them with practical experience in tackling real-world issues in their hometowns.

Read more at Michigan Farm News.

Michigan Farm News is an official publication of Michigan Farm Bureau.

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