Analog Tactility for Digital Literacy: Why AI, Media Arts, and Emerging Technology Are Best Taught Through Touch
This session explores how LitKit’s no-code STEM/STEAM maker kits use augmented reality to connect tactile, analog learning with digital and media literacy outcomes. Designed for high school and undergraduate classrooms, these kits introduce learners to creative technology pathways—bridging curiosity, career exploration, and critical thinking.
We’ll demonstrate how play-based activities rooted in metaphor, analogy, and hands-on making can illuminate complex media systems—from animation fundamentals to AI-enhanced creative tools and algorithmic systems. Participants will experience how tactile exploration supports deeper understanding of digital processes, strengthens critical analysis, and increases student engagement across disciplines.
The workshop includes interactive demonstrations you can try in real time using any smart device alongside your laptop/PC. We’ll also provide space for discussion, and Q&A.
www.litkit.art, www.nevergalleryready.com
Date: Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Time: 12 pm EST | 6 pm CET | 10:30 pm IST
Location: Register here for the webinar series.
Presenter: Karen Darricades
Karen is an award-winning educator, new media artist, and global speaker on AI and emerging technology, with talks in NYC, Vienna, Cairo, and more. She is the founding Artistic Director of the nonprofit Never Gallery Ready and the CEO of LitKit. She hosts the #WeMakeMedia podcast, and her works have been exhibited internationally. With 20+ years of curriculum design at the intersection of art, tech, and social impact, she has collaborated with Google Arts & Culture and the Toronto District School Board, advises Artivive and Sheridan University, and leads Arts & Culture for Creative Commons Canada.
Recent Awards and Relevant Engagements:
Chalmers Arts Fellowship (2024/25); Presenter, Creative Commons Global Summit on AI & the Commons (2023) - “From Indexes to Oracles: When search and find becomes asked and answered”, Lightening Talk, main stage, Creative Commons Global Summit - AI and the Commons, Centro Cultural Universitario Tlatelolco, Mexico City, Mexico; Presenter, RiseUp Summit (2023)”What’s in an image: pictures as portals to digital experiences",Cairo, Egypt; Winner, Toronto Arts Foundation’s Arts for Youth Prize (2022)