Career & Technical Institute students have been getting introduced in recent weeks to zSpace as part of their curriculum in class.
zSpace gives students the opportunity to experience problem solving and building things in their respective trade classes by using 3D virtual learning in the classroom. Students use a zSpace program on a computer, pointing a pen connected to the computer to build things and will wear glasses for the 3D experience.
James Hayes, teacher of electric at CTI, has included zSpace for half a class session one day a week and hopes his students will have the chance to use it more frequently in class.
“I love zSpace,” said Hayes. “I think it’s something we’re going to utilize a lot more in the future. We’re getting to the point where we’re starting to do lessons with it.
“In the electrical trade and most trades, it’s not strictly hands-on. There’s a certain amount of theory and bookwork that you have to do in order to understand what’s going on with the trade and different aspects of the trade.”
Hayes said using zSpace is an effective and safer teaching method that will be around for years to come. He said zSpace offers programs in various trades such as automotive, welding and HVAC.
“It’s much safer because we don’t have students in the shop where if you make a mistake you could get shocked, electrocuted or burn up a piece of equipment,” he said. 
Constantine Popovic enjoys working with his classmates in Hayes’ class at CTI.
“I’ve used it once or twice,” said the Millbrook High School junior of zSpace. “It’s interesting. It’s useful, and you can plan out things and projects with it.
“The way it felt to use it, it was very smooth to use with the pen and glasses.”
Noel Schweers is planning for a career as an electrician.
“I think it’s neat,” said the Poughkeepsie High School senior of zSpace. “I like the lessons it has. I’ve learned from it. I think it’s effective in the things it does teach.”
Aidan Abendschein also wants to be an electrician and said zSpace is similar to virtual reality.
“I like it,” said the Red Hook High School junior, who plans to continue studying electric at CTI in 2023-2024. “I never used it before this or anything like it. It helps you solve and build things, and it’s safer.”