Robots were once the stuff of fantasy thanks to science fiction movies, toys and novels. Now, robotics technology is a part of everyday reality helping man explore space, manufacture autos and sweep floors among other tasks. It’s also being used to teach, as middle school students will soon discover during a competition at the University of Houston.

The Lone Star FIRST LEGO League (FLL) Robotics Tournament will be held in UH’s Campus Recreation and Wellness Center from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. Teams of middle school students will design and build robots using LEGO Mindstorm technology, a robotics system designed by the LEGO Group. They will then program their robots to accomplish missions on an ocean-themed playing field. This tournament is part of the 2005 FIRST LEGO League Team Challenge in which similar tournaments will be conducted worldwide.

Although fun is a priority during this tournament, its primary goal is to enhance students’ interests in science, engineering, mathematics and technology.

“Students are intrigued by robots because of all the things they’ve seen on television or in the movies,” said Enrique Barbieri, UH professor of engineering technology. “Because they already have this interest, we’re able to use robots as a learning tool.”

The Lone Star FIRST LEGO League is sponsored by UH’s College of Technology, NASA, LEGO, Clear Creek Independent School District/NASA Robonauts and For the Inspiration and Recognition of Science & Technology (FIRST).

“We want to expose more students to science, engineering and mathematics, and we also want them know that there are careers in robotics,” Barbieri said. “Robots are used in the space program, the automotive industry and manufacturing among other trades. If we grab their attention now, we can possibly inspire them to pursue technical careers. Robotics is a perfect starting point for a student’s professional goals.”

The event is free and open to the public, and the registration fee for FLL-affiliated teams is $60. For registration details or additional tournament information, contact Taresa Mikle at 713-743-1855 or visit www.HoustonRobotics.org. For information on FLL, visit www.firstlegoleague.org.

Mike Emery
memery@central.uh.edu