Robotics and Technology
CSTL strives to support STEM education through dynamic programs that support youth and educators through applied robotics and technology challenges.
The robotics and technology program includes professional development for educators, events for youth, and development of partnerships.
Current Activities:
The ROADS Challenges
Rover Observation And Drone Survey (ROADS) is science, engineering, and technology challenges for students in grades 3-12 designed to follow the objectives of current NASA missions. They include the use of robots, drones, and scientific investigation technologies.
ROADS on Mars (2019/2020) celebrated and followed the mission objectives of the Perseverance Rover. This challenge was transitioned to virtual participation and competition due to COVID.
ROADS on Asteroids (2020/2021) celebrates and follows the mission objectives of current and future NASA missions to asteroids:
- Dawn (mission to Vesta and Ceres)
- Hayabusa 2 (mission to Ryugu)
- OSIRIS Rex (mission to Bennu)
- DART (mission to Didymos)
Please reach out to Anne.Hamlin@nau.edu if you are interested in joining ROADS.
Free Professional Development Sessions
PD for educators, parents, and administrators interested in STEM Education, Robotics, Drones, or NASA. No experience needed. These workshops will include interactive learning in robotics and drone basics through exploration of the ROADS Challenges, as well as opportunities to develop the resources that new coaches will need to launch or better support successful programs. Please check out our news stories and events to see current and planned professional development opportunities.
View past professional development webinars:
- Engage K12 in Coding during COVID and beyond
- Opportunities in FIRST robotics for all grade levels
- Supporting your robotics community during challenging times
- Coding Virtual Robots
- First in Class & FIRST @Home Recording
FIRST® Robotics Events – Help grow the robotics ecosystem in Arizona
CSTL supports the growth of the FIRST® team ecosystem, including FLL Jr., FLL, FTC, and FRC. We are specifically providing professional development to rookie FRC teams through a pilot program in 2019-2020.
FIRST® Core Values: It’s way more than building robots. We express the FIRST philosophies of Gracious Professionalism and Cooperation through our core values:
- Discovery
- Innovation
- Impact
- Inclusion
- Teamwork
- Fun
If you are interested in starting a team, or are a FIRST® rookie team in need of support, then please contact Sean.Ryan@nau.edu.