Hosting a Pipeline of K-12 Robotics Competitions at a College of Engineering – A Review of Benefits and Challenges

Abstract

This paper describes a pipeline of K-12 robotics challenges, which not only excites and engages elementary through high school students but also provides valuable educational experiences to engineering undergraduate and graduate students from Texas Tech University through formal class work, volunteer opportunities, and engagement in student organizations. It describes the benefits of the robotics programs seen by the participants, school teachers, undergraduate and graduate students, and university faculty as well as struggles and pitfalls experienced.