STEM Event - Evolution of Robotics

For the Dahlgren Heritage Museum's next free STEM session, the first fifteen 3rd-6th graders to register will learn about the evolution of robotic technology from Ozobots to LEGO Spikes to the Pi-Top. Guided by STEM Champion and instructor Mr. True Soria, a computer scientist at NSWC Dahlgren, students will get an introduction to coding as they use color-coded lines to move Ozobots on a path from one location to another.  Such lines drawn on paper or digital screens make it accessible for young learners to start programming without prior experience.

Background:

Robotics is the interdisciplinary study and practice of the design, construction, operation, and use of robots. Within mechanical engineering, robotics is the design and construction of the physical structures of robots, while in computer science, robotics focuses on robotic automation algorithms. Other disciplines contributing to robotics include electrical, control, software, information, electronic, telecommunication, computer, mechatronic, and materials engineering. The goal of most robotics is to design machines that can help and assist humans. Many robots are built to do jobs that are hazardous to people, such as finding survivors in unstable ruins and exploring space, mines, and shipwrecks. Others replace people in jobs that are boring, repetitive, or unpleasant, such as cleaning, monitoring, transporting, and assembling. Today, robotics is a rapidly growing field, as technological advances continue; researching, designing, and building new robots that serve various practical purposes.

Parents/guardians are welcome to wait at the museum or to return for pickup at 7:30 p.m.  Adults are asked to sign a consent form for photos to be used by the museum. The event is free, but donations to the museum are appreciated.