TechQuest

Fall Bots & Spring Bricks

This inclusive STEM class is dedicated to empowering all students, warmly welcoming and encouraging participation from all genders.
3:30 – 5:00 on Wednesdays
Sep 3, 24 to Jun 3, 25
Bot Builders Elite
Grades: 3rd to 4th

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Fall: The VEX GO Competition

The VEX GO Competition (VGOC) is an introductory robotics program designed for elementary school students, typically ages 5-11. It uses the VEX GO building system, which features large, colorful, and easy-to-handle components. Teams of students work together to design, build, and program simple robots to complete challenges on a small playing field. The competition emphasizes hands-on learning, problem-solving, and teamwork while introducing young learners to basic engineering and coding concepts in a fun, engaging environment.

The VEX GO Competition series consists of four progressively complex challenges designed to develop students' robotics and STEM skills. It starts with Ocean Science Exploration to introduce basic concepts and build foundational skills. It then advances through Mars Math Expedition and City Technology Rebuild, culminating in the most challenging, Village Engineering Construction. Each challenge includes a STEM Lab curriculum, a theme-based PDF storybook, and specific robot build instructions. Students who succeed in the VEX GO Competition are curious, enjoy hands-on learning, and have an interest in science and technology. Ideal participants love problem-solving, teamwork, and creative thinking. Those who enjoy building with LEGO or similar toys will find the robot-building aspects engaging. Persistence and adaptability are key, as the series encourages learning through iterative processes. The VEX GO Competition series nurtures a wide range of skills, making it suitable for diverse young learners excited about robotics and STEM. Blue Ridge Boost will host a competition for all the teams in December.

VEX GO Competition (VGOC): Developing Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills

The VGOC helps students develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills beyond just building robots in several ways:

1. Design Process

Students learn to iterate and improve their designs, analyzing what works and what doesn't. This teaches them to approach problems methodically and persist through challenges.

2. Strategic Planning

Teams must devise strategies to score points efficiently, considering trade-offs and prioritizing tasks. This develops strategic thinking and decision-making skills.

3. Troubleshooting

When robots malfunction or perform unexpectedly, students must diagnose issues and find solutions, enhancing their analytical abilities.

4. Collaborative Problem-Solving

Working in teams, students learn to communicate ideas, negotiate solutions, and leverage diverse perspectives to overcome obstacles.

5. Time Management

With limited time for matches and preparation, students learn to prioritize tasks and manage resources effectively.

6. Adaptability

Rules or challenges may change, requiring students to adjust their strategies and designs quickly, fostering flexible thinking.

7. Systems Thinking

Students learn to consider how different parts of their robot interact, developing an understanding of complex systems.

8. Computational Thinking

Programming their robots introduces students to logical reasoning and algorithm design, even at a basic level.

9. Real-World Application

Challenges often mimic real-world problems, helping students connect abstract concepts to practical situations.

10. Reflection and Improvement

Post-match analysis encourages students to reflect on their performance and identify areas for improvement, developing metacognitive skills.

These experiences help students develop a problem-solving mindset that extends far beyond robotics, applicable to various academic and real-life situations.

Spring First Lego League Explore

What is FIRST LEGO League Explore?

FIRST LEGO League Explore is a hands-on STEM program designed for children aged 6-10 years old. It introduces young learners to basic engineering concepts and scientific ideas through fun, interactive challenges using LEGO bricks.

Key Components

  • Annual Challenge: Each year, a new theme is introduced, focusing on a real-world topic. This year's theme is Submerged
  • Team-based Learning: Children work in teams of up to six members, fostering collaboration and communication skills.
  • LEGO Model Building: Teams design and construct a motorized LEGO model related to the challenge theme.
  • Show Me Poster: Teams create a poster to illustrate their journey and what they've learned.
  • Festivals: Non-competitive events where teams showcase their work and celebrate their achievements.

Program Benefits

FIRST LEGO League Explore helps children:

  • Develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills
  • Learn basic STEM concepts
  • Improve teamwork and communication abilities
  • Build confidence and creativity
  • Explore real-world problems and innovative solutions

Core Values

FIRST LEGO League Explore emphasizes the following core values:

  • Discovery: Exploring new skills and ideas
  • Innovation: Using creativity and persistence to solve problems
  • Impact: Applying learning to improve the world
  • Inclusion: Respecting each other and embracing differences
  • Teamwork: Learning that we are stronger when we work together
  • Fun: Enjoying and celebrating what we do!
Students who do not participate fully in the competition or fail to embrace its core values will be asked to leave the team, and no refund will be provided.