Development of an advanced robotics program for middle and high school VEX robotics students

Abstract

The paper outlines a project idea of creating an advanced STEM program that improves the competition outcomes of first-year middle and high school students in the VEX Robotics Competition. The program consists of three semesters based on the New York State competition season, engineering design process, and individual team progress. The STEM program also includes simplified college-level courses such as engineering math and physics, kinematics, dynamics, as well as advanced courses such as control systems and PID tuning. The program also provides students with the knowledge and tools in engineering and professional skills that better prepare them for a career in a STEM-related field. These professional skills include technical presentations, public speaking, interview, teamwork, leadership, and communication.