2018
Fall
Students who participated in the STEM RISE Arizona summer program, funded by the Agnese Nelms Haury Program in Environment and Social Justice, took the opportunity to be engaged in a series of six, 3-hour sessions at the University of Arizona main campus to explore LEGO Robotics offered by the 4-H STEM Cooperative Extension Team; Scott Omo an undergraduate in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering lead the Lego Robotics curriculum, Kaitlyn Benally a Veterinary Science major in School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences lead the youth in the 4-H pledge, and Jasmine Lopez also a Veterinary Science major in ACBS and an AmeriCorps member coordinated the sessions; Daniela Cabrera Research Specialist/STEM program coordinator and Dr. Gerardo (Jerry) Lopez provided support. Eight students ages 10-17 learned how to assemble a robot with LEGOs and program them using an app installed into an iPad. Students learned to work in teams, sharing knowledge with each other and experiential learning throughout each session. On November 17 on the UA campus, students showcased their skills to their families, such as a robot dance, navigating through a maze with different attached sensors and other assorted activities. Overall, students were able to take away new skills in programming and gain interest in a stem-related field.
Flyer_STEMRISE Arizona Clubs_2018.pdf
LEGO Robotics is a form of teaching and learning practice centered around LEGO Robotics kits. With the materials provided, it would permit individuals without formal training in engineering and computer programming to design, build, and program small-scale, robots. The material and practices provided can also exceedingly encourage and encompass collaborative learning, hands-on learning, and problem-based learning. It can also support constructivist learning, and authentic learning and assessment. LEGO Robotics can also provide students with a firm understanding of how things work and affect our society even they choose to take a career path in computer programming or engineering. The program also gives students a chance to understand how LEGO Robotics directly influences their physical environment. There are also benefits in areas of how students learn and in learning unspecified or nonmandated curriculum that will considerably amplify students’ success in higher education including the world of work. Lastly, the materials and practices are correspondingly used as the basis for the very popular FIRST LEGO League after-school activities and extracurricular activities and competitions.
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is a program that is dedicated to inspiring youth to become future leaders and innovators within STEM by engaging them in mentor-based programs. It also promotes well-rounded capabilities such as communication, self-confidence, and leadership. The core values implemented in the program are Discovery: We explore new skills and ideas. Innovation: We use creativity and persistence to solve problems. Impact: We apply what we learn to improve the world. Inclusion: We respect each other and embrace our differences. Teamwork: We are stronger when we work together. Fun: We enjoy and celebrate what we do! In addition, within the FIRST program, there are 5 different stages within the program that students can join. One of the 5 is the FIRST LEGO League where students practice teamwork and imaginative thinking. Throughout the program, young students (10 members of 4th-8th) are inspired to be science and technology leaders and innovators within the mentor-based program which includes two or more adult coaches. It would also build engineering, science, and technology skills that would encourage innovation including promoting well-rounded life experiences including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. This is just one of many opportunities that come with being a part of a LEGO Robotics team/program.