Microsoft and the National FFA Organization announced on Tuesday that they will expand their FarmBeats for Students program across the country. This program uses smart sensors, data, and artificial intelligence (AI) to teach students about precision farming in schools.
Starting today, FFA teachers and students in the United States, including FFA chapters in 185 middle and high schools, will receive a free classroom set of FarmBeats kits. These kits come with sensor systems that are ready to use and a curriculum for teachers. No special technical skills are needed to use them.
Many farmers are now using advanced technology, such as automated tractors and drones, along with data analysis. This helps them take early action against pests and diseases, increases crop yields, uses resources better, and responds to changing weather. By gaining hands-on experience with this technology, American agricultural students will be better prepared to compete in the global market. With the FarmBeats for Students kits, students can build sensor systems that monitor soil moisture and check for nutrient problems. This helps them learn about their plants and make smart decisions based on data.
Students can also adapt the kit to deal with local challenges like droughts, frost, and pests, giving them real-world problem-solving experience.
“Microsoft wants to make sure students and teachers have the tools they need to succeed in today’s tech-focused world. This includes giving students hands-on experience with precision farming, data science, and AI,” said Mary Snapp, a Microsoft vice president. “By partnering with FFA to bring FarmBeats for Students to classrooms across the country, we hope to inspire future agricultural leaders and provide them with skills to face challenges in the future.”
“Our partnership with Microsoft shows how working together can meet industry needs while helping students grow personally and professionally,” said Christine White, chief program officer of the National FFA Organization. “Supporting agricultural education and leadership is important for creating the next generation of innovators. Programs like this give students the technical knowledge, confidence, and flexibility they need to succeed in changing industries.
Investing in these young minds today will help create a better agricultural future.” Teachers, students, or parents who want to learn more about FarmBeats can buy a kit for $35 at the provided link and receive free training on Microsoft Learn.
Any teacher interested in the FarmBeats for Students program can take a free course on the Microsoft Educator Learn Center. This course covers precision agriculture, data science, and AI, allowing teachers to earn professional development hours and badges. FarmBeats for Students was developed together by Microsoft, FFA, and agriculture educators. The program follows guidelines for AI in K-12 education, agriculture career standards, computer science standards, and common core math standards. For more information about FarmBeats for Students, visit aka.ms/FBFS.
For more information about FarmBeats for Students, visit aka.ms/FBFS.
