Quote:
Originally Posted by Macktack
They should split all of FRC into two divisions, professionally built robots (e.g. robots built by NASA and GM and Boeing) and a division for student build robots. Teams that just assemble their robot from a kit that a profesional company built for them should not be allowed to compete with the student built bots. Having an alliance of GM, NASA and Boeing beat an alliance of student built robots benefits non of the students.
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I wish I knew where to find the quote to support this but FIRST doesn't really care who builds the robot. They care about inspiring students. Not all students are inspired the same way. For some it happens with hands on work others they have to take a step back and take a hands-off approach.
I pulled this mission statement directly off their website but the emphasis is mine:
Our mission is to
inspire young people to be science and technology leaders,
by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs
that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
The student built robot/professional or mentor build robot topic has been beaten to death. This does not happen as often as we think it does. Students can have some awesome mentors that help them and coach them while building a phenomenal robot. Not all students know how to operate some machines/tools or cannot operate manufacturing machines/tools due to restrictions. This makes mentors necessary when it comes to building specific parts or components.