Trial & Error Competition Team
Our team is made up of students in middle and high school. We design, build and troubleshoot robots that are created to meet specific challenges. We will be competing in the FIRST Competition on January 7th at Tri-C in Cleveland. We also enjoy competing in our Arena Room with other local robot teams.
Coding
Microsoft chairman Bill Gates says that: “Learning to write programs stretches your mind and helps you think better, creates a way of thinking about things that I think is helpful in all domains.“ The Trial & Error Competition Team offers any students interested the opportunity to learn to be active users of technology. We participate in the "Hour of Code", "Lightbot", "Lightbot Jr" and other student coding opportunities. We are also learning Scratch, Java Script, and other programs. We also offer students the opportunity to learn on different platforms.
Junk Drawer Robotics
A beginning level program that explores robotic arms and design. Concepts covered include pneumatics, arm designs, and three-dimensional space. Skills learned will include form and function, scientific habits of mind, and engineering design. Building stations allow individual or small groups to work on special projects in a more controlled environment than the Think Tank.
Mindstorms Challenges
This activity introduces upper elementary and middle school students to robotics. Teams are assigned their own Mindstorm Core and Expansion kit to build and grow with. As they complete different designs, there are a variety of Mindstorm challenges offered that allow them to improve their skills. If they do well in this program, then they are invited to participate in a competition team.
Website Design
The T&E Think Tank helps kids learn how to create their own websites. Currently we use "Wix.com", which offers a free platform for us to create a site like this one. Cyber Safety is also taught to anyone involved in this program.
Robots on the Move
Level 2 investigates locomotion by exploring, designing, and building mobile robot ROVs and other subsystems. This program focuses on friction, electronic circuits, mobile robots, simple machines, and buoyancy. Lessons learned will be invaluable for future competitive team robotics.
Mechatronics
Level 3 explores sensors, analog and digital systems while learning about simple electronic components. In this program, youth build basic circuits to explore how the components work. It's a great way to investigate basic elements of programming and instructions for future robot builds requiring computer control.
Video Game Development & Design
Develop personalized arcade, platform, RPG, FPS, or mobile games; build 3D models; design levels and/or create mods. Participants will gain skills and industry knowledge on topics such as game design, animation, writing, music production, video production, and programming. They will learn how to make their game accessible on web, iOS, and Android devices.
DIY Computer Coming Soon!
Program teaches students how to assemble desktop computer on the component level. Students will learn about AMD processors, motherboards, power supplies, RAM and hard drive storage, cases, and the tools necessary to put them together. They will also be encouraged to use the internet as a tool rather than merely a consumption platform. Lessons will explore the use of apps like Google Docs and how to build a PC, maintain a safe core temperature, and use anti-malware and internet security tools.
Think Tank
Our Think Tank is a safe place for kids explore and discover technology. A variety of programs are offered to explore engineering, coding, website design and robotics.
Graphics & Video Design
Art is no longer limited to physical images. Participants will investigate the use of hardware and software to create virtual renderings, manipulate photos and sketches, and create videos. This program will explore different applications for creating images and videos that can be used for a variety of purposes.