I have the opportunity to speak to a few groups of 3,4 and 5th graders about robotics and my program at a Tech Fair next month. I have about 40 minutes with them and want to expose them to as much as possible in the short amount of time. Any suggestions?
Thanks!
Do you have a computer/projector? (some really cool reveal videos look a lot more exciting than just showing your robot)
We talking about 5 kids or 100? ( because with a few kids letting them drive will be huge but with more that might be difficult)
I will have 5 separate with about 20 in each group. I only have about 40 minutes but wanted to get them as much experience as possible. I want it to be hands on, so I wanted them to be able to build something neat/fun and tear it apart before they leave so the next group is able to do the same.
Thanks for your reply!
Maybe something like questions along the way were who ever gets it right is allowed to drive for a minute or two. Not exactly sure what questions would be appropriate but if your trying to teach/explain the basics of robotics a reward will keep them listening.
Maybe a little explanation of the 3 D’s of robotics. Dirty Dull Dangerous. Or are you trying to keep it VEX centered?
We run similar demonstrations at ASU with 20-30 kids at a time. Do you have a field? We typically pre-build clawbots, and set them up to drive on two controllers. Main has the base on Tank drive, partner has the arm and claw. Put two on each side, and have them play a 1-2 minute match using the classroom competition version of Clean Sweep.
The other thing we did was have them actually play Toss Up. We had a couple of robots that were working reliably and just tossed them on the field. Again, 2 drivers per side. Setting that up takes longer, though. You might want to leave off the barrier and bump, just set up the perimeter and cylinders with tape lines on the floor. Makes it easier for everyone.
That’s what we’ve done in the past. Good luck.
Thanks a lot for the ideas guys! I like the idea of letting them drive a bot around!
clawbots are the way to go.
If you have access to any VEX Iq bots, those are excellent for the kids that age.