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For the Love of Robotics

Date: January 2007

The competition is the culmination of several months work for the students. Teams assembled at multiple locations with their creations, families, supporters, and team attire. At Intel Jones Farm the place was buzzing as volunteers kept groups organized, focused, and directed. Team leaders were trying to formulate strategies, review presentation materials, manage testing and oversee last minute tweaks to the robots.

Part one of the event requires each team to present in front of a group of judges. Teams are evaluated on research, content, technical detail, speaking ability, and support materials. The technical portion of the event is composed of the team navigating their robot through a time based, technically challenging maze of tasks and maneuvers. Here is where the programming, design, and engineering skills are evaluated.

Washington County 4-H Tech wizards entered two teams for the 2006/2007 competition and were delighted with the progress of our young and enthusiastic teams. David Hill School participated for the first time and according to Toni Crummett, their team leader, “In addition to the actual engineering and programming skills they have gained, the research and presentation components have been a tremendous benefit to them. Participants learned a great deal about nanotechnology and were able to communicate what they learned both in writing and speaking.”

Washington County 4-H Tech Wizards is a non profit group serving the under-represented youth. The multi-faceted program teaches life, critical thinking, and technical skills to youth in grades 3-12.

Press Contact:

Lisa Conroy, 4-H Faculty
Email: Lisa.Conroy@OregonState.edu
Phone: 503-725-2113