Kids build robots in PSU summer workshops

In addition to picnics, fun at the pool and outdoor play, Pittsburg area parents can add science and engineering to their list of summer activities for their children. The popular Adventures in Robotics workshops sponsored each summer by the Department of Engineering Technology at Pittsburg State University are designed to give third through eighth grade students a chance to apply a number of science and engineering principles by building and programming their own autonomous robots. The workshops are taught at the Kansas Technology Center on the PSU campus.

Randy Winzer, coordinating professor for the Electronic Engineering Technology program and workshop organizer said the workshops are "an excellent opportunity for parents to expose their children to a different learning model. We cover engineering concepts and spend some time talking about the positive benefits of teamwork. Most importantly, the students are able to apply those concepts by building and programming their own LEGO®-based robot, which is designed to solve a particular challenge."

This is the fourth year for Adventures in Robotics, Winzer said, and the workshops fill up quickly. He urged parents to sign their children up now for the July and August sessions in order to be guaranteed a spot.

The workshop dates are:
Adventures I (1st Session) – 9 a.m.-noon, July 24-28
Adventures I (2nd Session) – 1-4 p.m., July 24-28

Adventures II (1 Session only) – 9 a.m.-Nnon, July 31-August 4
(Students must have completed Adventures I or had exposure to LEGO systems in order to participate in Adventures II.)

To register or obtain more information, contact Winzer by e-mail at rwinzer@pittstate.edu or by phone at 620-235-4370. You may also visit the Web site.

---Pitt State---