Robotics

Math is the language of science, engineering and technology. We see robotics as a way to teach STEM education. We’ve seen that robotics does provide unique opportunities for teachers to place engineering design, scientific process, technological literacy and mathematics in contexts that students find engaging and understand. Across the nation, many schools and community-based organizations are using robotics to address STEM competencies.

This is a beginning course in robotics. We will be utilizing Lego Mindstorm kits, RobotC software and various Lego Robotics materials. The objective of this course is to introduce the student to basic programming as well as problem solving strategies. This course will involve students in the development, building and programming of a LEGO Mindstorm robot. Students will work hands-on in teams to design, build, program and document their progress. Topics may include motor control, gear ratios, torque, friction, sensors, timing, program loops, logic gates, decision-making, timing sequences, propulsion systems and binary number systems. Student designed robots will be programmed to compete in various courses as developed by First Lego League.

We hope that this class will provide motivation for students to continue in computer science and engineering courses.