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Unread 03-06-2014, 16:20
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gblake gblake is offline
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Re: FTC - Tetrix kit vs. Matrix kit?

Quote:
Originally Posted by Chief Hedgehog View Post
As an FRC Coach that is ready to start one (possibly two) FTC teams in the Middle School ranks - I am a bit concerned after reading these posts.

I thought that by going with one or the other kits (Tetrix vs. Matrix) either would be a great building block.

Now I am concerned about spending that type of money on either if they both have severe disadvantages.

Where do I go from here? I do not want to strap my future coach(es) with sub-par equipment.
Don't forget the 3rd option: VRC using the Vex equipment. If VRC's strong Middle School presence, VRC's year-round calendar/season, the timing and location of VRC tournaments in your area, the tech support infrastructure available, VEX equipment's pricing/reliability, VEX integration into Project Lead The Way classroom curricula, and the VRC program's worldwide reach match your needs; then by all means have it on your list of possible programs and equipment for your students.

Because each VRC season begins the day after the prior VRC world championship (mid-April), middle school students (who often *need* it) typically can enjoy a nice long build season before the North American tournament season is in full-swing, and they can study southern hemisphere teams' progress to get field-tested construction and strategy ideas.

The BEST program and equipment might be another option.

FTC/VRC/BEST/etc. all give students fun and inspiring experiences and challenges. Be a wise consumer and review them all to see which one matches your students' needs.

GBlake
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Last edited by gblake : 03-06-2014 at 16:26.
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