ARKADELPHIA -- Henderson State University plans to host its first Reddie Robotics Vex IQ Tournament on Feb. 3, 2018, with middle school students from area schools.
The cost of registration is $35. The competition is open to students in grades 4-8 and schools can send more than one team, but must provide at least one sponsor for every 10 students. The registration deadline is 10:59 p.m. Central Time on Jan. 20, 2018.
Teams can register online at https://www.robotevents.com/robot-competitions/vex-iq-challenge/RE-VIQC-17-3919.html. The event number is RE-VIQC-17-3919.
"Many students are lacking proficiency in the core subjects of science, technology, engineering and mathematics," Deanna Dennis, math specialist for The STEM Center at Henderson, said.
"Students also are lacking the interest in STEM fields beyond high school. The competition encompasses STEM education by encouraging life skills like teamwork, communication and project-based learning."
Vex IQ is a snap-together robotics system designed to present advanced concepts to possible future engineers of all skill levels in a manner that encourages teamwork, problem-solving and leadership. Vex Robotics developed its Vex IQ curriculum with 12 flexible units as a companion to the platform for students in elementary and middle schools.
"As the world grows more complex, our students need to keep up with the global challenges on the horizon," Dennis said. "There is even more a greater need for individuals equipped with the knowledge and skills to face problems by gathering information, evaluating it and presenting effective solutions."
Teachers can call Dennis at 870-230-5417 or email [email protected] for more information. Vic Dreier, director of the Arkansas Tech University STEM Institute in Russellville and its Project Lead The Way affiliate director, is listed as the secondary contact for the competition and can be reached by phone at 479-968-0331 or by email at [email protected].
Doors will open at the Education Center on Henderson Street at 7 a.m. on Feb. 3 for registration and inspections through 8:30 a.m. The practice fields will be open until 9 a.m. for teams after they are inspected.
The tournament will open at 9 a.m. and continue through 11:45 a.m. Teams will break for lunch until matches begin at 1 p.m. An awards ceremony will begin at 3:40 p.m.
"Hosting a VEX IQ competition helps to engage our schools' young people and interest them in STEM from elementary to high school and beyond," Dennis said.
Local on 11/03/2017