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Re: What to do when mentors are leading the team in the wrong direction?
Information and communication are two of the most important aspects of getting a team to work coherently together (mentors and students alike). During my two years, especially last year, my team has been extremely student-driven, and that worked well for us. However, I've seen teams that are mentor-driven, too, for good reason. There is no perfect balance, no "one-size-fits-all" scenario, and I think it's unfair to say "Student-driven is better" or "Mentor-driven is better" because both can be the case in different situations.
I disagree with the idea of voting given that most cases of that allow uninformed students to vote. Last year, my team made a great offseason tank drive that improved upon the previous season's drive train, which we were planning to use. However, when RR was revealed, the whole team suddenly convinced themselves that a swerve drive was the only good option, and that we should build one. I was in the tiny minority (less than 5 students, pretty sure) that believed that swerve would cost us more than the benefits we would receive (especially since holonomic drives were a better overall option when defense isn't present). In response, those opposed to swerve made a clear list explaining the pros and cons of each drive system, and we were able to convince the team to go with something a bit more manageable, mecanum. If we had voted on a drive system, swerve would have probably happened and we wouldn't be sitting with our district win blue banner now.
Communication is important. You mention that the mentors are pushing these prototypes that you feel aren't in line with your team strategy. Ask them why! I'm sure they have a good reason behind their choice, and if they don't, maybe they will re-evaluate their choice. Also tell them how you feel. Information is important, too - explain logically (e.g. cost, time, effectiveness) why you feel their choice is unwise. Offer an alternative, and explain why you feel it's right. Put everything on the table, and make sure everyone is coming to a decision together, since no one should be getting "their way" on a team.
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2012-2013: FTC 4601 (student)
2014-2015: FRC 135 (student) - 5 banners in 2 years!
2016-present: FRC 4272 (mentor)
Thanks to all of our alliance partners!
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