Unleashing Potential – SAS Hackathon
In my last post I spoke about the importance of learning through gamification. Learning in the classroom gets you started. Applying what you’ve learnt through events like hackathons, brings theory to life. And the 2 learning methods connect!
A great hackathon aligns with the learning objectives. It provides students with the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practical, real-world contexts. The themes, challenges, and activities complement the curriculum and enhance students' understanding of key concepts.
A successful hackathon fosters active student engagement and participation. It sparks students' curiosity, creativity, and passion for problem-solving. The format, structure, and activities motivate students to collaborate, explore new ideas, and push their boundaries.
Hackathons also offer valuable hands-on learning experiences that can't be replicated in traditional classroom settings. A great hackathon provides students with access to real-world data, tools, and resources, allowing them to gain practical skills and insights into industry practices.
And hackathons provide opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together students from different academic backgrounds, faculties, and skill sets. A great hackathon encourages cross-disciplinary teamwork, communication, and knowledge sharing.
Professors, industry mentors and subject matter experts play a crucial role in providing mentorship, guidance, and support to students. They offer advice, answer questions, and facilitate discussions to help students overcome challenges. A great hackathon facilitates networking, mentorship, and career development opportunities, helping students build connections and explore future career paths.
And a great hackathon incorporates opportunities for feedback and reflection, allowing students to assess their progress, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate their achievements. Post-event debrief sessions, peer reviews, and expert feedback help students consolidate their learning and prepare for future work.
Lastly a great hackathon embraces inclusivity and diversity, welcoming students from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. It creates a supportive and inclusive environment where every participant feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.
SAS Hackathon brings industry and academia together. The event provides a platform for participants to showcase their AI and data analytics skills, learn from industry experts, and collaborate with peers to tackle real-world challenges using SAS Viya. It's an exciting opportunity for students to collaborate with professionals to apply their knowledge and creativity. SAS Hackathon participation also looks impressive on a student resume. It demonstrates initiative, teamwork, and the ability to solve complex problems under pressure, which are qualities that employers value. And student feedback share how SAS Hackathon is an intense, experience that push students out of their comfort zones, to learn how to deal with ambiguity, failure, and time constraints. All of which are essential skills for personal and professional growth.
SAS Hackathon registration opens on the 30th May and the competition takes place between 16th September - 11th October. So now is a great time for professors and students alike to incorporate gamification into the Faculty’s program and use SAS Hackathon as a global stage where students can shine.
