ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - Back to school means new learning opportunities. Children ages 9 to 14 who are interested in robotics can join the APG South (Edgewood) youth center's FIRST Lego League team, the Eagle Botz.
The FIRST Lego League (FLL) is an international science, technology, engineering and math, or STEM program. FLL teams build robots using Legos and use a basic computer program called Lego Mindstorm, to control the robot. For upcoming competitions, the team will build an autonomous robot to score points on a thematic playing surface.
In addition to building robots with Legos, FLL teams are challenged to use their creativity to design a solution, modify an existing solution, or solve a real-world problem. The 2013 challenge is called Nature's Furry. Teams are asked to study a natural disaster and find ways to prepare, stay safe and rebuild. These challenges teach children about real-world problems
Eagle Botz Coach Chad Devorak is a parent volunteer and an engineer technician with the Edgewood Chemical Biological Center. Devorak said children who participate in FLL learn valuable lessons and skills while having fun.
"I like volunteering with FIRST Lego League because children are so creative, they see endless possibilities," Devorak said.
"FIRST Lego League shows children that math is not just a subject you learn in school, it is something you use in real life. Hopefully their involvement in FLL will spark an interest in the STEM subjects."
Devorak added that during local competitions teams are judged on their robot, their project, and how well the team demonstrates the FLL Core Values, which emphasize professionalism, respect and teamwork. The children also learn public speaking skills by making presentations.
Devorak said FLL encourages children to solve problems through brainstorming and trial and error. Those who wish to join FLL should have a desire to learn and want to contribute to the success of the team.
"I think this is a fabulous program," said Susan Byers, who has two sons, Henry 13, and John, 10, on the team this year.
"They have always loved Legos and have picked up on building the robots so fast. I think this program will definitely benefit them."
There is no cost for children to join the club. The Eagle Botz team is sponsored by ECBC, Child, Youth and School Services, the APG South Parent Advisory Committee, and through a National Defense Education Program grant. Last year, SAIC donated the Lego kits.
Devorak said the team plans to take several field trips, including visiting a meteorologist. Parents are welcome to participate with their children during meetings, and more volunteers are needed. Children who wish to participate in Eagle Botz are required to be registered with CYSS. For more information contact the APG South youth center at 410-436-2862/2890.
Social Sharing