Lincoln Empowers Students Through Technology and Gamification

Robotics, computer science, and machine learning are key studies, part of the Lincoln curriculum, to equip students with modern, real-world tools to tackle modern, real-world challenges in a technology-driven world.

“Technology is at the core of the Lincoln experience.” This is how Matt Dolmont, Technology and Innovation Coach, describes the technology program at Lincoln, the International-American school located in La Lucila, Vicente López. Thanks to its multicultural and inclusive environment, creativity flows in each classroom with technology as a forefront tool for innovation. Design Thinking, computer science, and machine learning are key studies, part of the Lincoln curriculum, to equip students for the future of technology and its practical applications.

At Lincoln, the goal is to empower students for change. To guide them into becoming confident, collaborative, and empathic thinkers and researchers that self-direct their learning. The local and international team of faculty and staff at Lincoln prepare students with modern, real-world tools to tackle modern, real-world challenges. It all starts in Grade 2. Early on, teachers use a hands-on approach to spark students’ imagination and develop critical thinking.

Robotics, coding, and fun

Gamification is integral in the elementary school technology program. At the Innovation Lab, students engage with Beebots and Sphero robots to learn the basics of coding and robotics. They create custom-designed models with the Creality 3D printers and explore engineering and programming concepts through building and coding with the LEGO WeDo and LEGO Spike Prime kits. In this engaging environment, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is emphasized, along with curiosity and creativity. Here, technology helps them understand complex concepts in a tangible and enjoyable way.

“Through this blend of technology and play, students gain practical experience while developing essential skills for their future,” Katherine Robinson, Elementary School Technology Integrationist, shared. With this workflow, learners investigate plant growth in learning experience platforms, such as Seesaw. Using smart cutting machines, they make personalized items to decorate the classrooms. They write poetry and produce art pieces through Artificial Intelligence (AI) and coding. They even bring their ideas to life during Lego Robotics, one of the after school activities at Lincoln.

Elementary school students already embody the school mission to enhance the world. As part of a Technology showcase, they presented projects like inclusive playgrounds to cater to all physical abilities, insect traps to address real-world pest problems, and windmills from scrap materials to tackle issues like drought and electricity shortages.

Programming, Design, and creativity

Middle school tech program is also designed to empower students for the digital age. Besides exploring computer hardware, they gain proficiency in basic programming with block-based languages and Python. With classes such as Multimedia, Product Design, Computer Science, The Power of Code, and Design Thinking, students develop their research abilities, learning to cite and verify sources, plan their work, and reflect as effective communicators.

By exploring digital expression and navigating iterative design processes, they build problem-solving skills and project management experience. “This builds a strong foundation for students to lead and adapt in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, making them well-prepared to contribute positively to their future careers and communities,” Nicolás Belluscio, Middle School Design & Technology Learning Assistant, commented.

Through the use of technology such as AI, not only do students get a more personalized learning experience, but they also access a vast array of information and learning platforms to make informed decisions and lead change. All these resources also create more enthusiasm and engagement in the classroom, which supports better retention and use of knowledge. “Such a combination nurtures a dynamic learning environment where students can explore, experiment, and excel,” Belluscio shared.

When asked about a significant project from the students, the middle school teacher recalled the enhancement of a classic game. “Watching them engage in the entire creation process—from coding and debugging to playing and refining their game with friends—demonstrates the program's emphasis on hands-on learning, teamwork, and having fun while applying technical skills,” Belluscio concluded.

Computer Science, AI, and innovation

High school offers technology-related courses such as Computer Science, Design Technology, Publications, and Multimedia. But in this section, technology goes beyond specific lessons. It’s integrated in the workflows of a student's academic career. They discuss AI in Theory of Knowledge philosophy classes and collect data and visualize it in the science labs. Students even work on their projects outside of school, as they have the agency to choose topics they are interested in and motivated to develop independently.

Students unleash their creativity through research databases, Arduino microcontrollers, 3D printers, laser cutters, and the Adobe Creative Cloud suite. The results are projects as innovative as they are varied, ranging from 3D-modeled animations and mobile hockey games to Bluetooth-controlled cars and AI models trained to identify celebrity connections.

“Game-based learning to reinforce objectives is a powerful tool used in certain classes,” Matt Dolmont explained. Although all these tools are used to enhance learning, they are applied strategically by planning with technology integration coaches. For example, in the case of AI, the use of it “must be cited in written works, including their prompts, and teachers are equipped with tools to help identify and address plagiarism,” Dolmont added.

Having a strong technology program is essential to prepare future generations with on demand technical skills. But beneath that, it’s also about fostering a lifelong curiosity and passion for learning and discovery. It’s about using that drive to enhance lives in a technology-driven world.