Curriculum Contribution: $90
This is a year long subject.
The Robotics elective will combine elements for both technology streams: digital and design. Students will be given a drive base design and a specific challenge that the robot will need to achieve. Students will need to design, build, and code the robot, then demonstrate that the robot can successfully complete the set challenge based on the FIRST Robotics Competition.
Students will receive opportunities to learn about the design cycle, using 3D design programs, programming and logic skills, engineering concepts, electronics, project management, and safety awareness. Students will complete projects and assessments from using digital CAD programs to safe handling of tools in the workshop.
This is a year-long elective. First semester is focus on building the robot in time to participate in the two available competitions, the Southern Cross Reginal (Sydney) in mid-March and the Melbourne Robotics tournament in early July. These competitions are an external commitment to class and not compulsory but are an amazing opportunity to develop teamwork and project management skills. Costs for competitions are separate to the class.
Second semester focuses on the surrounding skills in this industry. Students will develop life skills through approaching companies for sponsorship for the Robotics program and creating STEM models to share with peers and other audiences.
The Robotics elective incorporates all areas of STEM. Students will have a significant amount of autonomy in choosing the areas they want to focus on and building a skill set that will be applicable in a large variety of future careers as well as the independence and confidence to pursue them.