Over the past two months, a combined group of students from Auburn Girls and Granville Boys High Schools have been supported by the LEAP team within Macquarie University’s Widening Participation office to enjoy their first foray into the exciting world of robotics. The culmination of their efforts was to participate in the Duel Down Under competition, held at Barker College from 26-28 June.
Dual Down Under is the Australian National Championship of the international FIRST program, where student-built 50kg robots compete in this “Sport of the Mind.”
Each week 22 boys and girls from years nine and 10 came together to design and build a robot that could take to the “field” of Aerial Assist. As well as learning software programming skills and game strategies, these students also gained valuable experience in Mechanical Engineering. For many of them, it was the first time they had picked up a drill or a soldering iron.
Despite being “rookies” amongst a number of more experienced teams, the Cockatoo Crew (a name chosen to reflect the aerial aspect of the game) were fortunate enough to be chosen for an alliance with other teams to play off in the finals. Although they were ultimately unsuccessful with a two games to one loss, the excitement and team spirit was palpable.
In addition to receiving the LEAP to Success and the Finalist Alliance awards, the coveted Gracious Professionalism award was also presented to the team for their outstanding team spirit and motivation throughout the competition. Drumming, dancing and cheering for three days may have caused some lost voices, but it certainly ensured the team carried a positive attitude that lifted the spirits of all participants at the competition (including the organisers).
For further information contact Donna Heemi, LEAP Schools Engagement Coordinator on 9850 7335 or see the LEAP website.
Dual Down Under is the Australian National Championship of the international FIRST program, where student-built 50kg robots compete in this “Sport of the Mind.”
Each week 22 boys and girls from years nine and 10 came together to design and build a robot that could take to the “field” of Aerial Assist. As well as learning software programming skills and game strategies, these students also gained valuable experience in Mechanical Engineering. For many of them, it was the first time they had picked up a drill or a soldering iron.
Despite being “rookies” amongst a number of more experienced teams, the Cockatoo Crew (a name chosen to reflect the aerial aspect of the game) were fortunate enough to be chosen for an alliance with other teams to play off in the finals. Although they were ultimately unsuccessful with a two games to one loss, the excitement and team spirit was palpable.
In addition to receiving the LEAP to Success and the Finalist Alliance awards, the coveted Gracious Professionalism award was also presented to the team for their outstanding team spirit and motivation throughout the competition. Drumming, dancing and cheering for three days may have caused some lost voices, but it certainly ensured the team carried a positive attitude that lifted the spirits of all participants at the competition (including the organisers).
For further information contact Donna Heemi, LEAP Schools Engagement Coordinator on 9850 7335 or see the LEAP website.
