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4-H kicks off 2011 robotics
MISSISSIPPI STATE -- A popular statewide 4-H project has kicked off its new year with a capacity crowd at Mississippi State University.
Youth and volunteers involved in 4-H Robotics Clubs, located in more than a third of Mississippi’s counties, came to MSU on Jan. 15 to begin their projects. They will continue activities throughout January and monthly until the robotics contest at 4-H Club Congress and Project Achievement Days in June.
Last year, nearly 200 Mississippi 4-H youth worked on their science, technology and engineering skills with the robotics projects throughout the year. In addition to local meetings, the clubs meet statewide monthly through videoconferencing to learn new skills and take on new challenges.
Mariah Smith, an instructor with the Mississippi State University Extension Service, is coordinating the program for Mississippi 4-H.
“Each month, the participants will learn new aspects of robot construction. Topics include ultrasonic sensor and analog input, light sensor and digital input/output, touch sensor and conditional programming and use of Bluetooth technology,” Smith said.
Boys and girls ages 8-18 are members of the 4-H robotics clubs, and Smith said the clubs seek to interest young people in science, engineering and technology. Contact the local county Extension office for more information on the 4-H robotics program.
