DOHA: Continuing its online STEM@Home designed to develop science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills in Qatar’s school students during Covid-19, Texas A&M University at Qatar is offering a new programme on robotics for Grade 8-12 students
he Virtual Robotics Games, STEM is an integrated online learning workshop and competition organised and hosted by Texas A&M at Qatar to provide an opportunity for middle and high school students to explore the fundamentals of designing, building, programming and testing robots in a virtual environment – all from the comfort and safety of their own homes.
Students in Grades 8-12 will learn the basics of robot design, coding and simulation and refine their ideas for a working robot in a virtual environment using the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 virtual platform.
Using state-of-the-art design and simulation software, participants will build a robot to complete the assigned mission. They will also present their designs to a panel of robotics experts.
Students will receive weekly online training sessions provided via videoconference and an online learning platform. Participants will need a computer and internet access and are expected to commit four r six hours per week.
Participants will also need to purchase the simulation software licence (QR 100). Only students who complete submission of the weekly tasks will receive a certificate.
Extracurricular programme
Texas A&M at Qatar Dean Dr César Octavio Malavé encouraged all STEM-minded students to commit to this extracurricular programme to develop and enhance their school learning.
“Our mission of teaching and learning continues despite the circumstances we are living in due to the coronavirus pandemic,” Malavé said, “As engineering and education leaders in Qatar, Texas A&M at Qatar is uniquely positioned to be able to offer our expertise to school students to help them continue to learn and grow.”
Applications are due 21 September.