Teens Building Robots to Compete in Regional Contest
4-H Science Expanding its Reach and Partnerships
By Betsy Fradd. WSU Extension 4-H
They are inquisitive by nature and like to be challenged. Over 125 teens from Washington State 4-H clubs are taking part in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) regional robotics competition. Their mission: to built a robot without any instructions. Eight 4-H teams received kits made up of motors, batteries, a control system, a personal computer, and a mix of automation components – but no guidelines. Working with adult mentors, each team was given six weeks to design, build, and program a robot. “I like getting hands-on time with all aspects of building a robot and being given the responsibility instead of the adults,” said 16-year old Berenice from Benton/Franklin County 4-H. “I hope to gain experience that will benefit my future and make connections with other people.” |
Mentors from both technology and non-science backgrounds volunteered afterschool and weekends to help students navigate their projects.
“The mentors are fabulous at working with all students,” said Michelle Morris, 4-H Program Assistant, Chelan/Douglas County Extension. “They ask leading questions to get the kids to challenge ideas. The adults don’t give them answers but guide the students through the diagnosis process so they can figure it out for themselves,” added Morris.
4-H mentor Jared Kessie said he’s benefited from the student project. “The youth have taught me a lot about tenacity,” said Kessie one of four adult volunteers in Benton/Franklin County. “The robot building has given me much insight into the world of engineering. My hope is that students gain a love and respect for math and science as well as learning to be innovative,” said Kessie.
Washington State 4-H county teams include Spokane, Pierce, Chelan/Douglas, Benton/Franklin, Clark, Cowlitz, Clallam, and Grays Harbor. Each received $6,500 for the competition entrance fee in addition to $3,500 for additional materials, supplies and travel to the event from long-standing 4-H partner JC Penney.
“Our eight teams have built many new partnerships with schools, industry, and community leaders, said Janet Edwards, WSU Extension 4-H Science Specialist. “We are excited to partner with JC Penney and FIRST to bring 4-H science programs to students across the state to help prepare them for rewarding careers in science, engineering and technology,” said Edwards.
Scholarship opportunities through FIRST are available to all participating youth. 4-H teams, along with hundreds of students across the state, will compete at QWEST Field March 17 – 19 in Seattle. Winners advance to the international competition in St. Louis, Missouri in April.
For more information on the competition visit: http://firstwa.org and http://usfirst.org.
Posted February 2011
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