Subscribe to Calendar

Learn more

Walnut Grove encourages STEM learning with VEX Robotics Challenge

November 7, 2019

Last weekend, students from around BC gathered at Walnut Grove for the annual VEX robotics challenge. A large part of the event is organized and put together by Walnut Grove teacher, Rob Moslinger. What is the VEX robotics challenge? Well, we asked Rob what it’s all about:

What is VEX robotics? What is the event about?

VEX EDR is more than an integrated system of motors, wheels, metal, and sensors that can be used to build or program robots. It’s an established classroom companion for STEM learning in middle and high school. It’s a tool to help students understand crucial problem-solving concepts.

This year’s VEX Robotics Competition is called Tower Takeover. It is played on a 12’x12’ square field. two alliances – one “red” and one “blue” – composed of two teams each, compete in matches consisting of a fifteen second autonomous period, followed by a one minute and forty-five second driver controlled Period. The object of the game is to attain a higher score than the opposing alliance by placing cubes in towers, or scoring cubes in goals.

What kinds of activities do kids take part in during the day?

Students will design, build and code robots to perform various functions and/ or compete in various challenges and/ or competitions. Each year, an exciting engineering challenge is presented in the form of a game. Students, with guidance from their teachers and mentors, build innovative robots and compete year-round.

What is the main take-away for participants?

In addition to learning valuable engineering skills, students gain life skills such as teamwork, perseverance, communication, collaboration, project management, and critical thinking.

Why do you think it’s important for your kids to participate?

The VEX Robotics Competition prepares students to become future innovators with 95% of participants reporting an increased interest in STEM subject areas and pursuing STEM-related careers.