Robotics Academy Onsite Certified Training for VEX IQ
In this 5-day face-to-face teacher training, you will work with the world leaders in robotics education to learn how to teach programming and STEM using the VEX IQ.
| Register with Credit Card > | Register with Purchase Order > |
This training course offers a range of benefits for teachers and coaches who want to teach robotics and STEM concepts using VEX IQ (2nd gen) 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. Upon completion of the training, participants will receive a certificate of completion stating 36 professional development hours in areas including robotics and coding. 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 Platform
- Brain, Motors, Sensors
- Software
- Basic Movement
- Bumper Switch
- Distance Sensor
- TouchLED
- Gyro Sensor
- Color Sensor
- Optical Sensor
- Loops
- Conditions
- Repeated Decisions I
- Repeated Decisions II
- Obstacle Detection
- Line Tracking
- Remote Control
- Final Challenge
- CMRA Certification
- Beyond VEX IQ
- Goodbyes
Requirements
Class attendees use Robotic Academy’s computers, robot kits, curriculum, and programming software during the week. No extra purchases of any hardware or software for this course are necessary.
If you would like to purchase additional Robotics Education materials, you can do so by visiting the VEX Robotics Store.
Tuition Cost - $1,299
Tuition includes 5 days of onsite training and use of Robotic Academy’s computers, robot kits, curriculum, and programming software during the week. You do not need to purchase any hardware or software for this course. Lunch is provided as part of tuition Monday through Thursday.
Upon Completion
- 36 ACT 48 credits for Pennsylvania teachers
- Opportunity to earn a Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy Certification stating 36 hours of professional development
- A Certificate of Completion that may also be used to apply for Continuing Education hours