Robot Collaboration

[Amanda Morrison]

I think one of the most important things to remember in this thread is that these teams did not collaborate to gyp everyone else out of a competition, they didn't conspire against teams, etc. A lot of the negative comments seem to think this is so.

The best way to describe this is change. Some people like change, they think it's a great idea, and they can't wait to integrate it into their lives. But there's always someone who doesn't like the idea, no matter what way it affects them.

Of course we all have differing ideas about this: 'These two teams are cheating!' 'They're undermining the program!' and 'What a great idea!' 'I hope we see more of this in FIRST!' But it comes down to inspiring students, recognizing that we NEED to keep science, engineering, and technology readily available to students, and knowing that all of us - engineer, parents, peer, or otherwise - can make a difference.

I'm not going to take a side, because like I'm sure most people see, there are good and bad aspects to this. But these teams are going into uncharted territory and trying to do something for the betterment of FIRST teams, and that alone should be recognized and applauded.