The Friends of Hawaii Robotics works with programs from elementary to high school levels of robotics.The skills in robotics build critical life skills through technology, including teamwork, problem-solving, time management and innovative thinking.

Recently,  the Academy’s Junior High Robotics team received a grant for 20 VEX IQ starter kits with controllers and 20 competition add-on kits.

Robotics teacher, Peter Park said, “VEX IQ is a robotics platform designed to transform STEM learning for young students and their teachers. Students as young as eight years old can jump right in and snap robots together using this intuitive platform. Educators can utilize the free VEX IQ curriculum to help teach valuable lessons and skills that are needed in today’s changing world. The VEX IQ Challenge gives students affordable access to the inspiration, excitement and learning that comes from participating in an elementary school STEM challenge.”

VEX IQ robots are operated autonomously through preprogrammed instructions, that use sensors and are driven via wireless remote control.  A general match consists of two teams, each on opposite sides of the playing field. Each robot tries to score as many points as possible.