ECC to host Illinois robotics competition Jan. 19-20
FIRST Illinois Robotics will host two state championship robotics tournaments from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 19-20, at Elgin Community College, Building J, 1700 Spartan Drive.
The event is free and open to the public for viewing.
More than 650 Illinois students, age 9 to 14, will compete on the 100 robotics teams that have qualified for the tournament.
The FIRST Lego League challenges young participants to learn together as teams.
The theme this season is "Into Orbit."
Teams have programmed and built autonomous robots, using the Lego Mindstorms system, to perform a number of challenges.
They also have completed a research project and identified a human or social problem faced during long-duration space exploration within sun's solar system and proposed a solution.
FIRST is seeking volunteers for the event.
Volunteer positions available include judge, referee, table reset team, queuer, practice table staff, registration, photographer, information desk, T-shirt sales, set up or tear down.
No experience is necessary and training will be provided as needed.
To volunteer, contact FLL-volunteer@firstillinoisrobotics.org.
Visit www.firstillinoisrobotics.org to learn more about the FIRST Lego League.
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) was founded in 1989 to inspire young people's interest and participation in science and technology. Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, this nonprofit public organization designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while gaining self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
Founder Dean Kamen is an inventor, entrepreneur, and tireless advocate for science and technology. His passion and determination to help young people discover the excitement and rewards of science and technology are the cornerstones of FIRST.
FIRST features four programs - FIRST Lego League Jr., FIRST Lego League, FIRST Tech Challenge and FIRST Robotics Competition. The programs vary by age and challenge so that learning never stops building upon itself. Starting at age 6 and continuing through middle and high-school levels up to age 18, young people can participate at any level.