The Meaning of FIRST

[MooreteP]

Originally Posted by JackS

I think you're missing a major one here. Losing is important. In some cases, more so than winning.

I second this idea.

Losing, like criticism, is the only thing that makes you improve.

Winning just makes your ego smile.

That is why FIRST, borrowing from the sports model, is so effective.

[George1902]

Colleges do a very good job of producing scientists, programmers, engineers, and mathematicians. Let them do that.

In FIRST we inspire. We produce science, programming, engineering, and math students.

[WMFlip16]

Wow, I did not think this would be a huge thread. I have thought about this whole idea for a while and I agree that mentoring is a huge part of first. Mentors are great because they give knowledge to students. If i have know idea whats going on, who do i ask? A mentor, I agree that there are also some things that i just couldnt do. Everyone has a right to run a team how they want as long as the kids come out inspired, and excited about their future, and have learned something. I also believe that students should have a large involvement in what is going on in their team, and how you do that is up to you/your team

[MechEng83]

Originally Posted by George1902

Colleges do a very good job of producing scientists, programmers, engineers, and mathematicians.

I disagree. They do a good job of producing people with science, programming, engineering, and mathematics degrees.

The practical experience that students learn by working with the mentors on a real life problem -- with real life constraints -- helps produce people who are good at those professions.


To another point discussed here: Losing is inspiring to some. Winning is inspiring to others. A good coach can make either inspiring to his/her team.