Vex Debuts 2008-2009 Robotics Competition for Middle, High Schools
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Innovation First is launching a new Vex Robotics game for high schools and middle schools for the 2008-2009 school year. Dubbed "Elevation," the new competition tests students' robot-building skills and pits them in team competitions in which participants attempt to place the most objects inside a goal.
Vex Robotics student competitions are designed to foster STEM skills in students and incorporate both construction and programming in the various programs offered.
Innovation First described the new competition this way: "Elevation is played on a 12'x12' square field marked with eight triangular shaped goals ranging in height from 3" to 21" off the ground and a 28" square ramp platform at the center of the field. Two alliances, composed of two teams each, compete in each match, which consist of a twenty-second autonomous period followed by two minutes of driver-controlled play. The object of the game is to attain a higher score than your opponent alliance by placing cubes into goals, and 'owning' goals by having the highest cube in a given goal. Points can also be earned by 'parking' on the platform or by 'controlling' the bonus cube. A bonus is awarded to the alliance that has the most total points at the end of the Autonomous Period. Also, for the first time ever, corresponding Programming Skills Challenges and Robot Skills Challenges will be part of many Vex Robotics Competitions to further stretch the competitive imagination of teams."
Worldwide, more than 100 Vex competitions will be held in the coming school year. Winning teams in the Elevation competitions will compete head to head in the Vex Robotics World Championship, which will be held April 30 to May 2. Kits and equipment are available now.
Further information, including registration details, can be found at robotevents.com. Those interested in hosting an event can contact Vex Robotics organizers via e-mail here.
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About the author:David Nagel is the executive editor for 1105 Media's online education technology publications, including THE Journal and Campus Technology. He can be reached at dnagel@1105media.com.
Proposals for articles and tips for news stories, as well as questions and comments about this publication, should be submitted to David Nagel, executive editor, at dnagel@1105media.com.