Come join in on the computing fun and learn about the latest trends in physical computing through an exciting workshop on drones and robotics. Led by Mr. Stephen Michalik, All Nations Community School Co-Founder, Head Robotics Coach, and former Rice University AMP! Participant, along with Mrs. Charity Welty, All Nations Community School Math & Science teacher and 2022 AMP! Innovation Award recipients as they share their joy for all things STEM in a jam-packed session you won’t want to miss.
When Started-Robotics (Led by Stephen Michalik)
Wanting to take your CS courses to the next level? Look no further than physical computing with VEX robotics. Participants will be introduced to the VEX GO and IQ series kits in order to design, build, and test their very own robots for a parade. You’ll then put your programming skills to the test with the block coding web-based platform by VEX to show off your robot float for crowds to enjoy. Participants will leave with the tools necessary to kick-start a robotics program, enhance your CS courses, and engage students through the design process.
Take Off-Drones (Led by Charity Welty)
Join us in learning and experiencing hands-on drone coding with DroneBlocks as well as learn the basics of drone piloting with Iconic Drones.
In the first half of the session, we will explore the Pre Commercial curriculum of Iconic Drones. Participants will learn the basics of piloting and operating drones. They will get hands-on, “stick time”, to learn basic maneuvers and understand basic flight commands and terminology.
In the second half of the session, we will explore the DroneBlocks curriculum and simulator. Droneblocks curriculum teaches “STEM and the real-world application of drone technology through apps, drone coding, and simulators”. This curriculum features 200+ block, Python, and Java Script coding lessons. Participants will get to have free temporary access to the DroneBlocks curriculum and DroneBlocks app during the session. They will learn how to block code a Mars Mission in a simulator and then upload their code to the drone to witness their flight plan in action.
