University mentoring for first lego league

Abstract

This paper describes the teaching methods used by the teachers and graduate student mentors for students involved in the first lego league (FLL) robotics competition. Participants in the FLL, aged 9 through 14, were exposed to topics in robotics, artificial intelligence, engineering, biology, and ecology, in order to promote hands-on experimentation and development of presentation skills. Two important observations for potential mentors from academia are 1) teachers are often unprepared or uncomfortable with robotics and 2) students need more introductory materials, especially with programming and engineering principles, in order to be successful. The methods used to mentor the students are meant to serve as a guide for future guidance in first robotic competitions, or other instruction in the areas of robotics, engineering, and programming. All materials discussed are available upon request.