Empowering Young Minds: Exploring the World of Robotics and Coding for Kids with Wendy Hill

Ever wondered how robotics and coding can be accessible and fun for kids of all ages? Join me as I chat with Wendy Hill, co-host of Linux Out Loud, about her experience with FIRST LEGO League, a robotics program for kids ages 4-16. Wendy has been involved with FIRST for two seasons and gives us insights into how each level of the program focuses on teamwork and how different countries around the world come together each year for a championship event. Wendy takes us through her journey teaching Python, the competitive schedule that comes with being part of the robotics teams, and the regional, state, and world competitions. We also explore the fascinating inner workings of the kids' robots, which are made with Technic LEGO and what looks like rubber bands, and how crucial accurate programming is for these robots to run autonomously. Wendy also explains the innovation projects associated with the robotics program and shares an amazing story of how the her team's kids' idea will save their community $72,000 a day! This episode is filled with inspiring stories and insights into the world of robotics for kids.Lastly, we delve into the details of Wendy's team's journey from regionals to Worlds, a global competition in Texas with over 35,000 people. Discover the different levels of robotics competitions and awards, including the encore game that involves working with an alliance partner. Wendy also shares her thoughts on the cancellation of regionals and why she believes it's an essential learning experience for the kids. So, sit back and enjoy this enlightening episode on the exciting world of robotics and the impact it has on young minds! Trust us; you don't want to miss it!Links mentioned in the show:https://www.firstlegoleague.org/https://buildingbeasts.org/ (our team website)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FIRST_Championshiphttps://pybricks.com/https://mastodon.online/@[email protected] Support the show via Buy Me a CoffeeSend a boost with a new podcast app such as Fountain or via conshax.app/support/volunteertechnologistSee all the ways to contribute, and what producing this podcast costs, at volunteertechnologist.com/contribute/You can find me on Mastodon at podcastindex.social/@volunteertechnologist You can also reach me via volunteertechnologist.com/contact/Visit volunteertechnologist.com for show notes, transcripts, or more information.