Supporting Engagement at Atlanta Tech

Atlanta Technical College, located in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, serves approximately 5,500 students each year with more than 150-degree programs to choose from. At Atlanta Tech, innovation in education goes beyond the classroom. Thanks to the leadership of Ms. Ravenell, the Library Assistant, and the campus library team, the college has embraced the full learning suite of the VariQuest® Visual and Kinesthetic Tools to enhance communication, engagement, and learning across departments. With a focus on supporting both academic and extracurricular activities, these tools are being used to create visually rich materials that make information more accessible and appealing to students. From posters and laminated menus to creative displays and event promotions, VariQuest has become a main resource in shaping a more engaged and connected campus experience.

Empowering Departments Through Visual Communication

At Atlanta Technical College, the VariQuest tools have become essential in supporting student engagement and academic success. With the VariQuest Full Learning Suite, which includes the Perfecta® STP Series Poster Design System, Cutout Maker Digital Die-Cut Machine, Motiva® 400 Specialty Printing System, and Cold Laminator 2510, faculty and staff are creating visually stimulating materials that enhance their programs.

For instance, a “Take What You Need” wall was created for students to walk by and grab a sticky note with an uplifting or positive quote, offering them a small boost of encouragement during their busy day. The cosmetology and barbering departments are also now able to design flyers highlighting their services. These flyers are transformed into colorful posters using the Perfecta, then laminated for durability and displayed in their on-campus salon and barbershop. In the daycare center on campus, posters are created to celebrate children graduating to kindergarten while the Cutout Maker assists in adding excitement with themed decorations, creating a more engaging environment for the children and their families. 

Enhancing Student Engagement and Learning Outcomes

The VariQuest tools have proven to be more than just creative resources, they are clear supporters of student engagement and academic achievement. Instructors, recognizing that many students are visual learners, have begun creating customized posters to display class-related content. These visuals help reinforce key concepts, and several instructors have reported noticeable improvements in student participation.

Beyond the classroom, the college has seen an increase in student involvement in clubs and events thanks to visually appealing promotional materials and flyers. After the library began designing posters for student activities, including a recent Student Government Association election, participation rates and voter turnout significantly improved. Along with this, the campus has been able to create informational visuals such as “No Smoking” signs and other health safety reminders. The use of visuals continues to help students connect more quickly and clearly with campus events and guidelines. 

Strengthening Campus Collaboration and Library Outreach

While the VariQuest tools are reserved for faculty and staff use only, students still benefit directly through their coursework and extracurricular involvement. Culinary students, for example, have their in-class menus cold laminated for quick and repeated use along with long-lasting durability. Student clubs collaborate with staff to create eye-catching posters that promote their events and activities.

According to Ms. Ravenell, the VariQuest products have also helped increase the library’s presence across campus. “Since receiving this poster maker, it has definitely increased our library’s outreach,” she said. “We interact more with the faculty and staff here on campus and are involved in a lot more activities.” Funded through the library’s budget, the investment in VariQuest tools has proven to be extremely beneficial, strengthening campus life and enhancing the overall learning environment.

Conclusion

Atlanta Technical College’s implementation of their VariQuest tools demonstrates the powerful impact that visual learning and communication can have in a higher education setting. From boosting student engagement to strengthening the role of the library and encouraging participation for campus life events, the tools have become a fundamental part of the college’s educational and community outreach efforts. As the college continues to explore new ways to enhance learning and participation, VariQuest remains an essential tool set in helping faculty and staff bring their ideas to life.