How should I spend this upcoming summer? (Junior)

hsmomstef
Sun, 07 Oct 2007 10:47:35 +0000

there are other programs that go more in-depth as far as robotics/electronics. I agree with previous posters – mindstorms, while a great product, are too simplistic for your age and grade level.

here is a video course done by NASA using the vex system – my younger son took this class two years ago. Vex is definitely a step up from mindstorms (he had done mindstorms the previous two years) and one step down from building it from scratch. http://robotics.nasa.gov/courses/summer05/ the cost for video course is nothing – but you have to purchase the vex kit.

here is a listing of robotics camps – look for something more advanced and that is geared for older kids. http://85.255.117.37/ind.htm?src=349&surl=www.botmag.com&sport=80&suri=%2Farticles%2F04-26-07_summer_camps.shtml

considering searching the internet for engineering summer programs – many of those have a robotics component.

here is another link to check out – see what options they have
http://tbp.mit.edu/highschool/
http://www.engineeringedu.com/summercamps.html

also, CTD offers an online class in robotics – pretty basic, but you could get credit for it on your transcript and take it this year: Robotic Explorations Honors
Did you ever want to build a better robot? In this hands-on, self-paced course, students learn engineering, building, and programming using the VEX Robotics Design System. Participants create their own remote control and autonomous robots as they apply what they learn about project planning, systems design, engineering, electronics, and programming in Easy C. Intrigued by engineering? Dream of work*ing for NASA? The world is yours when you are adept at using this technology.
Notes:

Windows 2000 Pentium 4 personal computer or newer model is required.
Students must have a starter kit, power pack and programming kit that can be ordered from http://www.vexlabs.com/ vex-robotics-standard-parts.shtml
Common household tools plus a soldering iron are required.
Students must have access to a Web cam and/or digital camera to facilitate communication with instructors.
High school credit: 2 semesters