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The value of team, robotics style
November 12, 2008
Being on a robotics team isn’t all that different from being involved in any other team activity. It may even take more dedication, but like any team cooperation is key.
Like student-athletes, members of Quincy Public Schools’ robotics team, Team Hyper, have academic standards to adhere to during the robotics season, responsibilities to the team, and serious competitions. However, the atmosphere and skill sets required are different.
“It is similar in that we all work together toward a certain goal,” said Jason Savage, a veteran member of Team Hyper who works on the mechanical side of the robots. “I’d say robotics is more using your head rather than muscle.”
You could even argue the competitions are more serious, since a whole year’s worth of work comes down to just a few games, but the desire to win and team spirit are the same.
“The rules are the same and the competitions are just like sports competitions,” said James Keith, who spent four years on the team in high school and now volunteers as a mentor. “You want to win and if you don’t it sucks, but it’s not the end of the world. We really work together as a team.”
Perhaps unlike a sports team, the time the students put in throughout the year is flexible, which allows a wider range of students to participate.
“Sports might be a little bit more disciplined than us,” said Keith. “We’re not supposed to be here every day, but some kids who are here all the time are dedicated. Kids who can’t be here all the time can still be part of the team.”
The team elements that benefit students on any team are certainly present on Team Hyper, as students have the chance to work together, teach younger students, work with mentors, and have a place to go after school to participate in a positive activity.
“During the build season we’re here basically every day for six or seven hours,” said Savage, who helps train the new team members to build robots. “It’s like a job. It keeps kids out of trouble and let’s them actually learn something while they’re having fun.”
Check back for more on the Hyper Robotics Team in subsequent posts.
Posted by Jessica MacNeil on November 12, 2008 | Comments (0)
