The Botball Educational Robotics Program engages middle and high school aged students in a team-oriented robotics competition, and serves as a perfect way to meet today’s new common core standards.
By exposing students to an inquiry-based, learn-by-doing activity that appeals to their hearts as well as their minds, Botball addresses our nation’s need for a well-prepared, creative, yet disciplined workforce with leadership and teamwork experience.
The Botball season begins each year in September with the optional KIPR Showcase/Challenge. In the past, teams had opportunities to create websites for the R&D Website Challenge or promotional videos for the KIPR Video Showcase. Teams were asked to prepare educational, promotional or instructional websites / videos that related to robotics projects or robotic endeavors.
In January, February, and March, the Botball Educator Workshops provide team leaders and mentors with technology training and introduce the details of that year's game. Then, after a build period of about 7 weeks, students bring their robots to their regional tournament to compete against others in the current season's game challenge.
Students use science, engineering, technology, math, and writing skills to design, build, program, and document robots in a hands-on project that reinforces their learning by:
Autonomous - No Remote Controlled Robots!
The robots are always autonomous! Botball gives students the tools to develop sophisticated strategies using artificial intelligence with embedded systems. Students will learn to program their robots in advance using C, C++, and Java. Read more...
Engineering With Minimum Tools
No need for power tools or a machine shop. Competitors are at a level playing field with access to all resources. Read more...
Reusable Components
In a recent survey (2011), 86% of Botball team leaders reported using these components for educational activities outside of Botball throughout the academic year. Read more...
Training and Support
Botball prepares teachers and mentors on how to use robotics in their classrooms, curriculum, and community. It will help prepare teachers and mentors to build a foundation that will impact their students for years to come. Read more...
STEM Standards
Botball can be used in the classroom to address the National Science Standards. Read more...