Course Description

In VEX Automation and Robotics (AR) students explore robotics and automation as they take on the role of interns, and work in teams to create prototypes to meet the needs of clients. They build and analyze mechanical systems and automate them with programmed input and output devices.

Students work as Scientists and Engineers, immersing themselves in motivating STEM activities that develop creative problem solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

Lesson 1: Automating Mechanisms

Students explore how gear trains and other mechanisms transfer movement in mechanical systems and design, build, and program automated systems to meet the needs of clients. In the end-of-lesson project, students can choose to design an interactive device to keep pets physically and mentally active, a spinning street sign to warn drivers to slow down and stop, or a high-speed dragster.

Lesson 2: Sensors and Systems

Students investigate the versatility of an optical sensor as a programmed input device. Students extend their knowledge of mechanisms as they design increasingly complex prototypes to serve the needs of users. In the end-of-lesson project, students connect inputs to outputs through programming to create effective solutions that help their communities.

Lesson 3: Create and Automate

Students design solutions using an automated mechanical system and the programming necessary for communication between the sensors, motors, and building components. Students pick their own problems or select problems that highlight their creativity and are of service to others. Throughout the unit students reflect on their growing skills and interests and explore careers in the field.

Course Goal

The goal of this course is to immerse students in STEM through the excitement of building and programming robots. Today’s tools will be used to shape the minds of tomorrow’s problem solvers.

How the Class Will Be Taught

This course will use a variety of instructional strategies to move students progressively toward a stronger understanding of automation and robotics and, ultimately, greater independence in engineering and programming. Students will be introduced to new topics through demonstrations or brief readings of mission objectives and suggested programming followed by the opportunity to put the concepts into practice. Each lesson or challenge will build upon the last. Students will be expected to work collaboratively to troubleshoot and to solve open-ended challenges.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the registration process, please contact Ange Mason, SDSC Education and Outreach, via phone at (858) 534-5064 or email at education@sdsc.edu.

UCSD Zero Tolerance Behavior and Web Responsibility Rules of Conduct

Behavior

• Profanity and vulgar language on the part of the student is prohibited.
• Students may not exhibit aggressive behavior towards another student.
• Students may not place his/her hands on another student.
• Student conduct, either individually or in a group, that is intentionally disruptive to or designed to be disruptive to the program may result in dismissal from the program.
• Disrespect towards UCSD staff and classroom teaching assistants will not be tolerated.

Web

• Digital or photographic artwork must represent the original work of the student and must not include plagiarism or copyright violations.
• Digital and photographic artwork may not contain profanity, vulgar language, or statements that promote hatred towards an individual, race, or community.
• UCSD staff reserves the right to determine what is deemed inappropriate.
• Viewing or accessing material that may be deemed inappropriate by StudentTECH staff will be cause for parental notification and possible dismissal without refund.
• Viewing or accessing video games or social networking sites during class instruction will be cause for parental notification and possible dismissal without refund.
• The student is solely responsible for the content of his/her project creation.