Introduction to Robotics

Technical Robotics Education and Curriculum
1

Hello

I currently work at a high school using PLTW/VEX in the classroom and running five FTC teams using Tetrix and/or Actobotics with Modern Robotics Controllers, etc.

I am going to a new school that has no robotics of any kind and I am looking for suggestions about a good introductory platform for grades 7-12

I like the RobotC programming with the VEX and the easy plug-ins and programming on the VEX cortex. But I am wondering if I should be looking at a different beginner system since I am planning to eventually start an FTC team.

I was thinking I will just invest in the new Modern Robotics GoBilda metal and maybe a REV controller for an FTC team, but I was looking for something a bit more basic for the younger students. The metal is not really the snag, but the programming and controller set ups could be.

VEX again? Boe-Bots? Suggestions?

2

I was introduced through FLL/Vex (FLL middle school, Vex beginning of my first FRC Season/engineering class) and it was pretty good. RobotC got me into programming, and though I switched into business for the team i still have an interest in programming that i explore in my free time.

3

I am a huge fan of VEX. We are using VEX IQ in our Davis Youth Robotics program which is for 4th. through 8th grade. Then we are using VEX EDR for High School robotics classes. We also run an FRC team.

Here are the things I really like about both of the VEX products:

  1. Everything is really well made and fits together well.

  2. For me, the control systems, motors, sensors, etc. have been very reliable.

  3. The RobotC software is now free with the product purchase. It is very intuitive and works extremely well.

  4. The VEX IQ and VEX Cortex Video Trainer is outstanding. It allows students to progress through a ton of tutorial videos at their own pace.

  5. Tech support is excellent.

4

I’m going to echo the other responses here and recommend VEX. It’s an excellent beginning platform that is easy for beginners to wrap their heads around while still allowing experienced/creative students to achieve some pretty sophisticated things.

I took an electronics class that used Boe-Bots in high school, and I have to say I’m not a huge fan. Boe-Bots are definitely accessible to beginners, but the BASIC-stamp technology is outdated and the platform doesn’t support continued experimentation like VEX, FTC, etc.

5

Thanks everyone.

I was looking over the GoBilda stuff from Modern Robotics in St. Louis and I discovered the “Spartan” from them. It looks very similar to the Parallax BoeBot but has the advantage of using Matrix parts and MR sensors so the transition from an intro class over to an FTC team would be even easier. Plus, they have two programing options for their Spartan control module (looks similar to the VEX cortex).

I am still a fan of VEX, though. tricky.

6

for all of you that like vex what is the best way you have seen to organize the 6 bot kit for the class room.