Why is robotics is such an important experience for kids? See five reasons below.
1. Kids learn to be creative and solve problems
Students conquer a series of challenges under time and resource constraints, taking advantage of the energy, creativity, and optimism that only kids can muster! Each team brings a different solution to the same problem, but each must also use their wits to solve real-time challenges each time they face a new opponent. And students must supply 100% of the leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving; no adults allowed in the pit!
2. They’ll master teamwork and collaboration
A good robotics team is a good team first! Students share ideas and collaborate when solving problems. Each team member has his or her own assignment, and students often specialize or take on leadership roles. And the best teams are those demonstrating true commitment. Look up the top skills that employers seek, and teamwork will always be near the top!
3. They find meaningful role models
Robotics students need heroes, too! Students are led by teachers, volunteers, or other mentors, but they also frequently have access to engineers, scientists, college students, and others. It is important for them to see that their roles models are just like them, so ExplorTech is allied with diverse national organizations who can provide speakers, mentors, and volunteers for your team!
4. They meet new friends
A good team is always driven by good friendships. We encourage the formation of teams wherever they naturally exist - after school, through scouts or church youth groups, home schools, siblings, or your friends down the block. And you can even make new friends at competitions, and expand your horizons!
5. Robotics helps secure a future career
Whether students ultimately take on a career in technology or not, the world that they grow up in will be much more infused with tech than we can even imagine. Every kid can have a future in tech, regardless of career direction. And robotics team members learn important "soft skills" like communication, creative thinking, work ethic, teamwork, decision making, time management, flexibility, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
ExplorTech announces new low-cost computers and Internet service
PCs for People has distributed over 70,000 computers since 1998. ExplorTech is proud to launch our new PCs for People portal to distribute quality refurbished desktops, laptops, internet and accessories to our family members. Most purchases require proof of financial need.*
*PCs for People accepts many forms of proof of income status, including The National School Lunch Program’s Free or Reduced Lunch Program, food support, Social Security Disability, and more. See details online. Since 1998, PCs for People has been a driving force behind digital inclusion efforts in the Upper Midwest. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, their mission is to offer affordable technology to provide a bridge across the digital divide that offers employment and educational opportunities to low-income individuals and non-profits.
ExplorTech, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, partners with communities, school districts, and colleges to provide training, technological solutions, and educational activities for Texas teachers, students, and families located in small or rural school districts where limited funding, small populations, and isolation limit the availability of technology education.
ExplorTech does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, ancestry, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical disability, veteran’s status, political service or affiliation, color, religion, or national origin.