FIRST, which stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and

Technology, designs accessible innovative programs to build self-confidence, knowledge and life-skills while motivating young people to pursue opportunities in science, technology and engineering. With the support of many large corporations, this not-for-profit organization hosts the FIRST Robotics Competition.

 

 

 

 

 

FRC: FIRST Robotics Competition

FRC

 

FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) is a unique varsity sport of the mind designed to help high-school-aged young people discover how interesting and rewarding the life of engineers and researchers can be.

The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges teams of young people and their mentors to solve a common problem in a six-week timeframe using a standard "kit of parts" and a common set of rules. Teams build robots from the parts and enter them in competitions designed by Dean Kamen, Dr. Woodie Flowers, and a committee of engineers and other professionals.

FIRST redefines winning for these students because they are rewarded for excellence in design, demonstrated team spirit, gracious professionalism and maturity, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Scoring the most points is a secondary goal. Winning means building partnerships that last.

What is unique about the FRC program?

  •   ►It is a sport where the participants play with the pros and learn from them

  •   ►Designing and building a robot is a fascinating real-world professional experience

  •   ►Competing on stage brings participants as much excitement and adrenaline rush as conventional varsity tournaments

  •   ►The game rules are a surprise every year

 

 

FTC: FIRST Tech Challenge

FTC

The FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is a mid-level robotics competition for high-school students. It offers the traditional challenge of a FIRST Robotics Competition but with a more accessible and affordable robotics kit.  The ultimate goal of FTC is to reach more young people with a lower-cost, more accessible opportunity to discover the excitement and rewards of science, technology, and engineering. 

In 2005, FIRST and RadioShack teamed up to present the FIRST Vex Challenge (FVC) demonstration at the FIRST Championship in Atlanta, GA.  The purpose of the FTC demonstration tournament was to stimulate and explore interest in FIRST Vex competitions.  The event was an overwhelming success.  FIRST began a full pilot of the program during the 2005-2006 FIRST season.  After two years as a pilot program, the FIRST Board of Directors approved FTC as an official FIRST program, changing the name to FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) in 2007. 

During the first official season, FTC grew to 799 teams and 31 official events, reaching  about 8,000 students across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.  In 2008 a new kit of parts was developed and showcased at the FTC World Championship in Atlanta.  The new kit is more powerful and has more options.  It also allows for a smoother transition from FLL into FTC by using the same NXT controller FLL teams have been using for a number of seasons.  FTC will use the new kit beginning in the 2008 season.

 

FLL: FIRST Lego League

FLL

FIRST LEGO League (FLL) is an exciting and fun global robotics program that ignites an enthusiasm for discovery, science, and technology in kids ages 9 to 14 (16 outside of the U.S. and Canada).

Each year FLL teams embark on an adventurous Challenge based on current, real-world issues. Guided by a team coach and assisted by mentors, the kids:

  •          ►Research and solve a real-world problem based on the Challenge theme
  •          ►Present their research and solutions
  •          ►Build an autonomous robot using engineering concepts

 

Using the yearly Challenges, FLL:

        •          ►Entices kids to think like scientists and engineers
  •          ►Provides a fun, creative, hands-on learning experience
  •          ►Teaches kids to experiment and overcome obstacles
  •          ►Builds self-esteem and confidence
  •          ►Inspires kids to participate in science and technology

No matter what the child’s subject interest, FLL offers an opportunity for engagement. Whether it is by creativity, technology, or research, FLL dares kids to test, explore, expand, or completely change thoughts and approaches for different sciences each year.

 

Jr FLL: Jr FIRST Lego League

Jr FLL

Junior FIRST LEGO League (Jr.FLL) is an exciting opportunity for the youngest budding scientists. It encompasses the core concepts of all FIRST programs to inspire, excite, and introduce kids to the wonders of science, technology, and engineering.

Jr.FLL:

  •         ►Teaches the benefits of teamwork
  •         ►Sparks initial interest in science and technology
  •         ►Introduces basic design skills through a hands-on approach with the familiarity and fun of LEGO building
  •         ►Provides a culture of sharing and learning from others

The goal of Jr.FLL is to provide an experience that will capture young children's inherent curiosity and creativity and direct it toward discovering the possibilities of improving the world around them through understanding, thought, planning, and technology.

 

 

 

 

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