Kickoff for 195:
First, we go to a local business who provides a conference room for our entire team to watch the webcast. Not only do we enjoy watching as a group, it helps to get brainstorming done right away. It is encouraged to bring a notepad and a pen here.
After this we go to our build space which is split up into many rooms. We use this to our advantage. We divide into smaller brainstorming groups to develop what we believe a "good" robot should do. We encourage these teams to stay realistic. We find it very important to incorporate students of every grade into each group. After awhile brainstorming in small groups, each group presents their solution to the rest of the team. We then decide as an entire team what we feel as a team is the best option strategy wise.
It is important to follow some brainstorming "rules" for kickoff day:
-There is never a bad idea.
-Write every idea down.
-Make sketches when possible. Even if the are not very detailed, any sort of visual representation can help.
-Include everybody. You never know who could come up with the next choke-hold strategy.
As Stated above, it is also important to inventory the Kit and look and hold at what you are given. Another necessity of kickoff day is the rule book. We have 2-3 students who are dedicated to knowing the rule, keeping up with updates, answering questions for team members, and submitting questions if they arise.
The most important thing to remember, through the stress of Kickoff, it is intended to be fun, so stay positive!
