Robotics Academy Certified VEX IQ (1st & 2nd gen) Training (Online)
This course requires VEX IQ (1st & 2nd gen) hardware (not included with tuition) along with VEXcode IQ programming software. However, you can utilize CMRA's Virtual VICE Robot if you do not have a physical robot available (single license included with registration)! A headset is also highly recommended in order to participate in the course.
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This training course offers a range of benefits for teachers and coaches who want to teach robotics and STEM concepts using VEX IQ robots and the VEXcode Blocks (Scratch-based) programming software. The course is particularly well-suited for teachers and coaches who are new to programming and wish to learn the fundamentals of robot programming as well as the pedagogy associated with CS-STEM concepts. However, experienced teachers with programming and robotics backgrounds will also benefit from the course, especially with its focus on the VEX IQ, hands-on practice in troubleshooting student errors, and integration of STEM concepts.
Educators will learn how to leverage our research-based curricula including Coding and Computational Thinking with VEX IQ (2nd gen), Introduction to Programming with VEX IQ (1st gen), as well as Coding and Computational Thinking with Virtual VICE Robot in their own classrooms. Teachers and coaches may also complete the included certification exam, and in doing so, become an official Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy Certified Educator, authorizing them to offer similar rigorous and evidence-based certifications to their students.
Supported Competitions and Programs
Teachers and coaches who support students in robotics competitions, such as the VEX IQ Challenge (VIQC) will find the course invaluable for gaining knowledge, techniques, and community. The course offers a practical approach to learning, with a focus on hands-on activities and problem-solving exercises that will help educators better understand the concepts and develop effective teaching strategies. Teachers using Project Lead the Way (PLTW) curriculum are welcome to join and will benefit from a deeper understanding of the programming, computational thinking, pedagogical concepts, robot hardware, and troubleshooting techniques we focus on. The Project Lead the Way teachers we have worked with have found our training to be a highly valuable complement to the PTLW training.
Alignment with Standards
Our courses are aligned to:
- Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) Standards
- National Research Council Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS)
- Common Core Mathematics Standards (CCSS)
- College Board Computer Science Principles (CSP) Framework
- Common Core English Language Arts Standards (CCELA)
- International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Standards
- International Technology and Engineering Educators Association (ITEEA) Standards.
By taking this course, teachers can gain a range of benefits, including customizable learning, networking opportunities, and the chance to earn professional development credits and a Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy Certification. Most importantly, the course empowers teachers to effectively teach robotics and CS-STEM concepts, helping their students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that are essential for success in the 21st-century workforce.

Syllabus
- Getting Started
- VEX IQ v1 and v2 Platform
- Brain, Motors, Sensors
- Software
- Basic Movement
Session 2: Sensors
- Bumper Switch
- Distance Sensor
- TouchLED
- Color Sensor
- Loops
- Conditions
- Repeated Decisions I
- Repeated Decisions II
- Obstacle Detection
- Line Tracking
- Remote Control
- Final Challenge
- CMRA Certification
- Beyond VEX IQ
- Goodbyes
Requirements
The following is required in order to take this course:
VEX IQ v1 or v2 Robot Kit – Sold Seperately
We recommend the VEX IQ Super Kit or VEX IQ Education Kit (2nd generation)
VEXcode IQ
Download VEXcode IQ
System Requirements
- An up-to-date Windows PC, Mac, Chromebook, Android Tablet, or iPad compatible with the VEXcode IQ programming software and Zoom video conferencing software
- An up-to-date Internet Browser
- An available USB port or Bluetooth for robot connectivity
- A Headset or microphone (to join in on the discussions!)
- A broadband Internet connection
Tuition Cost - $699
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Upon Completion
- 36 ACT 48 credits for Pennsylvania teachers
- Opportunity to earn a Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy Certification stating 36 hours of professional development