Skip To Main Content

2026 Technology Fair Categories

This year, due to limited space in the convention hall and the desire to include a wide variety of projects, we are adjusting the number of projects each school may submit.

As in previous years, there are six divisions by grade level: Grades CD-1, 2-3, 4-5, 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12. 

To prevent judges from being overloaded, if too many entries are submitted in a category by students within a single division, that division’s category may be split, with each grade level judged separately. 

Team entries with students from multiple grade levels will be judged in the division corresponding to the highest grade level represented on the team. 

Project Submission Restrictions:

  • Schools that teach four or more grades (e.g., most elementary and high schools): No more than 4 projects in each category, not to exceed 20 submissions per division

  • Schools that teach three grades (e.g., middle schools and Myrtle Beach Elementary): No more than 4 projects in each category, not to exceed 40 submissions per division.

  • Schools that teach two grades (AAST, ATA, St. James Intermediate, and Myrtle Beach Early Childhood and Primary): No more than 5 projects in each category, not to exceed 40 submissions per division

As an example of the above limitations, a school that teaches kindergarten through 5th grade may submit no more than 60 total projects (no more than 20 per division). For each category, the school may submit no more than 12 projects (no more than 4 per division). If their Grades 2-3 division already has 4 Robotics & Automation projects, the remaining 16 projects that division can submit must be from other categories. 

We always encourage teachers to review each project before its submission to the HCS Technology Fair, regardless of the number of entries. However, if your school has more projects than allowed in a particular division and/or category, we ask that you select the top entries to submit to the fair. 

Below is a description of each category students may compete in.

App Design & Mobile Innovation (ADI)
Basic: Simple app concepts (e.g., drawing app ideas or using app-building platforms).
Intermediate:  Mobile apps for solving everyday problems.

Advanced Fully functional apps, multi-platform apps.

Audio Production (ADP)
Basic: Exploring audio concepts through simple sound recording and editing projects

Intermediate: Developing multi-layered audio projects with mixing, effects, and structured compositions.

Advanced:  Creating high-quality, fully produced audio projects with advanced techniques.

Coding & Software/Game Development (CSD)
Basic: Block-based coding projects (e.g., Scratch games or animations).
Intermediate: coding in Python, Java, or JavaScript (e.g., building small apps, games).
Advanced: Full software applications (e.g., developing, data visualization tools).

Digital Art/Animation (DAA) 
Basic: digital drawings or animations (e.g., simple animations using tools like Google Slides or Scratch).
Intermediate: 2D or stop-motion animations using software like Blender or Pencil2D).
Advanced: digital art projects (e.g., 3D animation, digital storytelling, character design).

Digital Art/Photo Production (DPP)
Basic: Digital drawings or collages using apps like Tux Paint or Kid Pix Studio. Photo edits and collages using tools like Canva, Pixlr, or Photoshop Express.
Intermediate: Design custom artwork or posters using Procreate, GIMP, or Adobe Illustrator.
Advanced: Advanced photo editing, 3D art, or digital portfolios using Adobe Photoshop, Blender, or CorelDRAW

Robotics & Automation (R&A)
Basic: Simple robots or automated devices (e.g., a basic moving robot).
Intermediate: Robots with problem-solving (e.g., obstacle avoidance, following commands).
Advanced: Robots performing specific tasks or processes, automation systems.

Video Production (VDP)
Basic: Record simple videos with narration using apps like ChatterPix or Clips. Edit short videos with transitions and effects using iMovie or WeVideo.
Intermediate: Create more complex video projects, incorporating voiceovers, sound effects, and text using Premiere Rush or DaVinci Resolve.
Advanced: Produce professional-level films or animations using tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Blender.

Website Development and Design (WDD)
Create an original, functional, and visually appealing website that demonstrates creativity, technical skill, and clear purpose. Websites should effectively communicate their intended message, offer a user-friendly experience, and showcase students’ ability to use web development tools and techniques.
Basic: Wix, Weebly, Google Sites, Canva Websites.
Intermediate: WordPress, Adobe Dreamweaver,
Advanced: HTMS, CSS, JavaScript

Passion Projects (PPC)
Topic choices below, but all are considered in the Passion Projects Category and would primarily be developed outside of school:

Artificial Intelligence Technology: Develop projects that demonstrate the use of AI technologies, such as machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and automation. Students should create AI-based solutions that showcase innovation, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of how AI impacts society.
Basic Level: Creativity, understanding of AI concepts, and clear presentation. Research and present on how AI is used in real-world applications (e.g., healthcare, robotics, education). Explain different types of AI, such as machine learning and natural language processing, through a presentation, infographic, or interactive display. Explore ethical considerations and responsible AI use through a case study or debate.
Intermediate Level: Hands-on demonstrations, logical simulations, and data analysis. AI Simulations & Hands-on Demonstrations) Create a model or simulation demonstrating how AI works (e.g., a decision tree, chatbot logic flow, or a sorting algorithm). Use data sets to explore how AI can identify patterns and make predictions (without direct AI tool access). Compare AI-generated content to human-created content to analyze strengths and weaknesses.
Advanced Level: Innovation, technical depth, and real-world problem-solving. (Designing AI-Inspired Solutions) Develop and present a concept for an AI-driven solution to a real-world problem (e.g., an AI-powered tutoring system, accessibility tool, or environmental monitoring system). Build a prototype or wireframe for an AI-integrated app or system using pre-approved design software. Research AI bias and create a proposal for improving fairness and transparency in AI systems.

Virtual Reality (VR) & Augmented Reality (AR)
Basic: Create VR/AR environments using pre-made tools (e.g., Google Cardboard or CoSpaces).
Intermediate:  Build interactive AR or VR experiences (e.g., AR apps that teach concepts, VR simulations).
Advanced: Advanced VR/AR (e.g., fully immersive educational or entertainment VR/AR experiences).

Cybersecurity
Basic: Introduction to online safety (e.g., posters or presentations about cyber safety).
Intermediate:  Basic cybersecurity concepts (e.g., creating secure passwords, understanding malware).
Advanced: Advanced cybersecurity projects (e.g., securing online networks).

Assistive Technology
Basic: Simple assistive devices (e.g., devices to help with everyday tasks for people with disabilities).
Intermediate: Intermediate assistive tech (e.g., gadgets to aid mobility or communication).
Advanced: Advanced assistive technology (e.g., AI-powered tools, prosthetic devices).

 

Teacher Division: 

Elementary, Middle, High Category 

This category is defined as any original work that includes the design, implementation, and assessment of activities/products:

  • Engage students and improve learning
  • Enrich professional practice
  • Provide positive models for students, colleagues, and the community.

Teacher artifacts are not limited to a specific category, tool, or concept. They will be judged based on innovative practices to achieve learning goals.