Robots are a facet of life that we see daily in mechanical objects ranging from vending machines to stop lights to iPhones. Although nearly everyone uses some form of robotics every single day and science fiction writers are constantly thinking of ways in which robots can be even more helpful to humans in the future, very few people actually design or build robots.
Being able to craft and create a robot takes a lot of skill and dedication and although a scarce few people can achieve such a goal there are many individuals who take interest in robots and would like to know more about their capabilities. Unfortunately, the mainstream media does not put enough emphasis on the breakthroughs in robotic technology. Luckily, technology is booming and the Internet connects the world so there are more ways to learn about robots and partake in their creation by simply Googling the subject. One such example of an organization that supports robotic endeavors is the “FIRST” which includes a Robotics Competition.
According to www.usfirst.org, the competition is aimed at letting young robot inventors show off their inventions and become familiarized with the inventions of others. By making connections with other inventions and getting new ideas for robots the program hopes to entice youths to make a career path out of their technological interest and subsequently make the robots market boom in the near future.
According to the website:
“FIRST was founded in 1989 to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology. Based in Manchester, NH, the 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit public charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.”
The founder of FIRST, Dean Kamen, is described as an inventor, entrepreneur, and a science and technology advocate. He started FIRST (meaning “For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology”) in 1989 as a way to inspire young people to become involved in and excited about science and technology. According to Dean Kamen:
“Our mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology leaders, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.”
The FIRST robotics competition is aimed at high school aged individuals who seek to gain experience and possibly scholarships by entering their inventions for review. Partaking in the event gives youngsters the opportunity to learn from professional engineers, become adept at using sophisticated software and hardware, and even earn a place in the World Championship. Additionally, FIRST offers over 16 million in college scholarships.
Although many “teams” and entries are done via schools, it is entirely possible for homeschooled children to partake in this event as well. FIRST even has an option for people to create their own team so it is conceivable to create a team of homeschooled children. Whether for a team or an individual, FIRST is an organization to look into if your child is interested in robotics. Aside from the competition, there are many programs, videos, external links and tons of additional information available on the website: http://www.usfirst.org/
The future depends on the upcoming generations. There are not many people who are interested in and adept at creating the robots that so effortlessly infuse with mainstream life. Hence, if a child is good at science and technology the adults around them should do everything in their power to encourage and support that endeavor and introducing them to an organization like FIRST is a good way to nurture such interests.
Comments