Objective: Work in teams to solve engineering challenges with robots.

Lesson Content
In this lesson, students will be introduced to the concepts of teamwork in robotics and learn about the types of challenges they will be facing. They will also get an overview of the skills they’ll be developing, such as troubleshooting, engineering design thinking, and the basics of robot optimization.

Topics Covered:

1. What is a Robotics Challenge?
   Robotics challenges are tasks or problems designed to test the capabilities of robots and the ingenuity of the people controlling them. These challenges can involve:
   • Completing a task (e.g., moving objects from one place to another).
   • Competing in timed events (e.g., robot races).
   • Achieving specific objectives under certain constraints (e.g., robot soccer).
2. Why Are Challenges Important in Robotics?
   Challenges are critical in learning robotics because they help students develop skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and engineering design. Facing real-world challenges fosters innovation and adaptability.
   Example: In a timed robot race, students must balance speed and stability. A faster design might be unstable, so students must find a way to optimize both aspects.
3. The Importance of Teamwork in Robotics Challenges
   Solving complex engineering problems often requires multiple perspectives and skills. Working in teams allows students to split roles and collaborate on solutions, making it possible to tackle bigger challenges and achieve better outcomes.
   • Example: One student might excel at programming the robot’s movements, while another focuses on building a sturdy robot frame. Together, they can create a more successful design.
4. Skills Gained from Robotics Challenges
   • Troubleshooting: Identifying and fixing issues with the robot’s performance.
   • Optimization: Making improvements to achieve a desired goal more efficiently.
   • Adaptability: Learning to modify designs when faced with unexpected obstacles.

Detailed Lesson Notes and Real-World Examples

Lesson 1: Objective – Work in Teams to Solve Engineering Challenges with Robots

• • Team-Based Problem Solving
    Working in teams simulates real-world engineering environments where projects require input from various fields. Each team will be assigned roles (e.g., programmer, builder, tester) to foster a collaborative environment and maximize learning.
  • Example Challenge:
    Design a robot that can move through an obstacle course in the shortest time possible. Each team must brainstorm solutions, decide on a design, and assign tasks to build and program the robot accordingly. This challenge requires cooperation and time management to succeed.
  • Real-World Connection:
    In real engineering projects, such as designing a space rover, different teams focus on specific aspects like navigation, communication, and durability. Team-based problem-solving encourages students to apply similar collaboration and division of labor.