Developing STEM competences by building Low-Cost Technology Robots: A Work in Progress

Abstract

In the world, there is a concern about not preparing enough students and teachers in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Developing countries, like Guatemala, have the need to organize this kind of competitions and can develop them locally. Outreach programs created by local universities, like Universidad Galileo, and other organizations can contribute in the development process of this STEM activities. After four iterations of a local robotics competition and founding the National Robotics Competition in Guatemala we can conclude in a preliminary state that our local students have the STEM competences needed to participate in this kind of competitions. Our proposal is to design and manufacture a local low-cost robot to engage more students nationwide for the next iteration of this robotics competition.