What are the tools and environments students use?
We follow the VEX Robotics Curriculum created by Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy to teach STEM. We specifically use VEX IQ hardware, which is the VEX Robotics starter kit for elementary and middle school students.
What programming languages will students use?
Students will learn ROBOTC, a graphical programming language. With ROBOTC, they can easily transition to the text-based C programming languages. ROBOTC is a VEX, LEGO Mindstorms, Tetrix, RDX, and Arduino UNO/MEGA compatible programming language. Students will use ROBOTC for both virtual and physical robotics.
What projects will students work on?
Students will learn how robots work. Students will learn to control robots with codes virtually and physically. Students will perform simple projects both virtually and physically where they will perform multiple independent tasks involving controlling sensors (color sensor, touch LED sensor, gyro sensor, distance sensor, bumper switch, and motor encoders). Students will become confident and competent in robotics.
What is the refund policy?
You may cancel your registration for a full refund up to three (3) days before your session starts. Please note that no refund will be issued if the cancellation is requested after this three-day limit and your session has begun.
Do you follow any K-12 curriculum standards?
The activities in our curriculum follow several K-12 curriculum standards, including
CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards 2011, and ISTE NETS Student Standards 2007.
Upon completing one session or multiple sessions, what’s next?
After one session students will earn both virtual and physical badges for their accomplishments, which they may add to their portfolio. Advanced students who have won many badges and completed many sessions (which varies in number depending on a student’s individual progression), may independently apply for an exam with fee to receive a certificate from Carnegie Mellon, which will benefit their college portfolio. The VEX curriculum is designed to support students from elementary through high school, starting with VEX IQ, then with VEX EDR, and then with VEXpro. Students may go on to join groups participating in nationwide competitions as they develop their skills and experience.