Welcome to Drive Forward News from VEX Robotics.
Jump to a section to read:
- Robotics is the Best of Both Worlds: Technology and Teaching
- From Code to Reality: How VEX AIM Brings Hands-On Robotics to Life
- Fresh VEX PD+ Insights Articles: Enhancing Accessibility with VEXcode 4.0 and Using Switch Blocks to Support Differentiation
- Join us at BRILLIANT Festival
- Southern Educational Robotics Conference (SERC)
- From Competitor to Coach: Nevin Jeremy Li’s Robotics Journey
Robotics is the Best of Both Worlds: Technology and Teaching
Eric Howe, a teacher at Stargate School in Thornton, Colorado never expected to teach robotics but soon realized it offered the best of both worlds—combining hands-on technology with the art of teaching students valuable life skills. Originally a social studies teacher, Eric transitioned to teaching robotics as part of a broader role, embracing the opportunity despite having no prior experience in the subject. Undeterred, he learned alongside his students and, over time, built a thriving robotics program that inspires students and coaches alike.
Discovering the Power of Hands-On Learning
“When I first started, I had no experience with robotics,” Eric shared. “They handed me a classroom of fifth graders and said, ‘Here are your robots.’ I was learning alongside the kids, and it was exciting. Their enthusiasm for hands-on learning was infectious.”
Eric quickly realized the power of robotics as a unique way to blend technology with education. His students weren’t just programming; they were seeing the tangible results of their work as their robots came to life. “Anyone can program on a computer, but it’s special when students see what their code does. That’s when the learning becomes real,” he said.
Teaching Robotics During the Pandemic
Eric’s journey was challenging. Starting a robotics program amid the COVID-19 pandemic felt like “teaching swimming without water,” as Eric described it. With students learning remotely, hands-on robotics became nearly impossible. Fortunately, VEX Robotics had just released VEXcode VR, which allowed students to continue learning programming in a virtual environment.
“That first year was tough,” Eric admitted. “But once we got back in person, everything took off. The virtual learning tools gave the students a foundation, and when they returned, we hit the ground running. Teaching robotics during that time highlighted the beauty of this subject—using cutting-edge technology to engage students even in difficult circumstances.”
“I love teaching, and robotics is the best of both worlds. I get to work with technology and help kids learn—there’s nothing better.”
Eric Howe, Teacher and Robotics Coach
The Value of Competitions
One of the pivotal moments in Eric’s program came when Stargate School began hosting its VEX Robotics tournaments. In a region with limited opportunities, Eric saw a chance to give his students more competitive experiences. “Our first tournament was small—just nine teams, six of which were our own,” he said. “But it was a start, and from there, we’ve grown.”
The competitive nature of robotics has become a key motivator for Eric’s students. “Robotics is gamified, which makes it exciting,” Eric said. “The students want to do well in tournaments, but even those who don’t compete still follow the same engineering design process. The tournaments are the cherry on top.”
Building Student Motivation and Ownership
As the program evolved, Eric’s role in the classroom shifted. “In the early days, I had to push the students more,” he said. “Now, they’re self-motivated. I recently taught an 85-minute block where the students worked non-stop on their robots without much guidance from me. It’s amazing to see them take ownership of their own learning.”
The fusion of technology and hands-on learning has empowered Eric’s students to take control of their projects and learning experiences. “This blend of technology and education gives students the tools to own their work, which is a core strength of robotics education,” Eric noted.
The veteran students, some of whom have competed at the VEX Robotics World Championship multiple times, serve as role models for younger students. While they may not formally mentor, their dedication and work ethic inspire others.
A Program That’s Here to Stay
For Eric, the success of Stargate’s robotics program has become a point of pride for the school and community. “We don’t have a football team, but we have a state championship robotics team,” he said. “And it’s cool to be on a robotics team here. The kids feel like they belong, and they’re developing critical life skills. “Despite obstacles, Eric’s program continues to grow, and he’s already looking for ways to expand robotics opportunities for students across the region. “I love teaching, and robotics is the best of both worlds. I get to work with technology and help kids learn—there’s nothing better.”
Share this on social media:
From Code to Reality: How VEX AIM Brings Computer Science to Life
Set to launch in 2025, VEX AIM is designed to elevate computer science education for middle and high school classrooms. Unlike traditional coding programs that rely solely on screen-based activities, VEX AIM offers a hands-on robotics experience that makes learning tangible. VEX AIM transforms abstract coding concepts into real-world problem-solving with features like object manipulation, advanced vision sensors, and an omnidirectional drive system.
A Flexible Solution for Any Classroom
VEX AIM is about making computer science accessible at every learning level. Whether students start with block-based coding, progress to text-based coding with Switch, or dive into more complex projects using Python, VEX AIM adapts to various skill sets. This flexibility empowers teachers to utilize lessons that fit their classroom’s needs—whether a simple coding exercise or an in-depth project requiring object recognition and manipulation.
Real-World Problem Solving Through Robotics
One of VEX AIM’s strengths is its ability to help students see how core computer science principles—like algorithms, computational thinking, conditional logic, and loops—are applied in real-world scenarios. With VEX AIM, students can write programs that guide the robot through specific tasks using logic statements, variables, and loops, all while seeing the immediate impact of these elements in action. They can experiment with different control structures, debug errors, and fine-tune algorithms to optimize performance—all skills essential for success in CS. This hands-on approach brings concepts like functions, modularity, and data handling to life, making abstract ideas tangible and engaging while reinforcing the problem-solving strategies that educators focus on, such as decomposition, pattern recognition, and algorithmic efficiency.
Collaborative Learning Built In
VEX AIM is designed to support collaborative learning. The platform enables multiple robots to communicate with each other, making it perfect for team projects. Whether coordinating a multi-robot task or navigating a complex course, students gain valuable experience working together, solving problems, and iterating on their solutions in real time.
Shaping the Future of Computer Science Education
By combining physical computing, programming, and core computer science concepts into a single, classroom-ready platform, VEX AIM equips educators to teach the foundations of algorithms, loops, and computational thinking in a hands-on way. It’s more than just a robot—it’s a tool that helps students bridge the gap between coding on a screen and solving real-world problems. From creating programs that use conditional logic to exploring how different control structures impact a robot’s behavior, VEX AIM makes coding lessons relevant and tangible, empowering students to tackle challenges that require critical thinking and effective problem-solving.
While many educational robotics products currently available focus on introductory toys or basic circuit board kits, VEX Robotics identified an opportunity to enhance learning experiences by offering a comprehensive solution that fosters deeper engagement and understanding.
How VEX Robotics Uses AI
While VEX AIM incorporates an AI Vision Sensor to help the robot see and recognize objects, colors, and signs, it focuses on making robotics accessible and interactive. This supports a wide range of educational activities, allowing students to engage with their code on a deeper level. As Bob Mimlitch, Co-founder of VEX Robotics, puts it, “VEX AIM is about helping students play, understand, and code. It’s not just about AI—it’s about making robotics fun.”
Privacy-First Technology
VEX AIM is built on edge computing technology, meaning all processes occur locally on the device. This keeps sensitive camera and video information safe and contained within the classroom, giving educators peace of mind when integrating advanced robotics into their curriculum. “By processing everything on the device, VEX AIM ensures student privacy is fully protected,” says Tim Friez, VP of Educational Technology at VEX Robotics.
Educators interested in learning more can visit the VEX Robotics website for additional information. With its release in 2025, VEX AIM promises to redefine what’s possible in K-12 computer science education.
Share this on social media:
Fresh VEX PD+ Insights Articles: Enhancing Accessibility with VEXcode 4.0 and Using Switch Blocks to Support Differentiation
Imagine a classroom where every student feels confident diving into robotics and coding—whether it’s their first time or they’re experienced programmers. The education team at VEX Robotics is making that possible by working closely with the VEXcode development team to introduce the latest updates in VEXcode 4.0 and the new switch blocks. Alaina Haws and Audra Selkowitz, senior education developers at VEX Robotics, recently explored how these tools can create more inclusive and adaptable learning environments for students, regardless of their experience level or abilities.
In her article, “Enhancing Accessibility with VEXcode 4.0,” Haws outlines the new accessibility features designed to support diverse learners. For example, the high-contrast themes make text and coding blocks stand out, reducing eye strain and providing better visual clarity. While this is a step in the right direction for supporting students with visual impairments, more progress remains. Keyboard navigation and audio support for block reading are also designed to assist students struggling with text-heavy projects. These tools are part of an ongoing effort to make robotics and coding more accessible for everyone—without compromising engagement.
Meanwhile, Selkowitz’s article, “Using Switch Blocks to Support Differentiation,” looks at how these new blocks can help teachers tailor their coding lessons to each student’s comfort level. Whether you’re working with beginners who are just getting started or experienced students eager to take on Python, switch blocks offer a natural way to build up skills. By using switch blocks, teachers can scaffold coding activities, letting students move between visual and text-based coding at their own pace. That means less frustration and more “aha” moments as students connect what they see with how the code functions in the real world.
Selkowitz includes some real-world classroom stories to show what this looks like in practice. One example features a teacher guiding a mixed-ability coding club through a competition challenge. Some students are still using basic blocks to navigate their robots, while others are already using switch blocks to explore Python commands — and everyone’s working on the same project. It’s not just about coding; it’s about giving students control over their learning and making sure they’re always working in their zone of proximal development, where the learning is challenging but not overwhelming.
So, what’s the takeaway here? It’s not just about adding new features. It’s about creating a classroom experience where every student can thrive. VEXcode 4.0 and switch blocks aren’t just technical updates — they’re tools for breaking down barriers and building confidence in every learner. By giving educators more ways to differentiate and students more ways to access the curriculum, these updates show that when we talk about “inclusion,” we mean making sure every student feels like they belong in STEM.
Check out both articles on VEX PD+ to see how these updates can transform your classroom. Interested in learning more? Schedule a one-on-one session with our team to dive into how you can use VEXcode 4.0 and switch blocks to create a more inclusive, engaging environment for your students.
VEX PD+ is a subscription-based learning platform created for educators who help bring robotics to classrooms worldwide. Find out more about it and how to sign-up.
Share this on social media:
Join us at BRILLIANT Festival to discover how VEX Robotics is transforming STEM education across the UK—don’t miss Chris Calver’s talk on competitive robotics!
We’re thrilled to announce that VEX Robotics will attend the BRILLIANT Festival 2024 on October 15th in Liverpool, UK (Stand C9).
This exciting event will bring together over 1,000 educators from across the northwest region, offering opportunities to network, collaborate, and gain insights from industry leaders.
The Festival’s mission is to empower educators, transform education, and prepare students for the brilliant futures that lie ahead. Together, we aim to revolutionize teaching and learning and nurture the next generation of innovative thinkers and problem solvers.
As a Sponsor and Technology Leader at the event, we’ll showcase how VEX Robotic’s enriched continuum of products can help educators integrate STEM learning into classrooms and beyond. Additionally, Chris Calver, our UK Education Manager, will lead a talk on “Raising Attainment Through Competitive Robotics,” exploring the powerful impact of competitive robotics on both schools and students.
Share this on social media:
Come see Jason McKenna, Dr. Jimmy Lin and VEX Robotics at Southern Educational Robotics Conference (SERC) October 10-11, 2024
What to Expect from VEX Robotics at the Southern Educational Robotics Conference (SERC) held at Auburn University on October 10-11
Since its founding in 2019, the The Southern Educational Robotics Conference (SERC) has been a cornerstone event for educators and administrators across the Southeast. Originally launched as a VEX Robotics-focused conference, SERC quickly grew in scope to become the first multi-platform educational robotics conference in the country. By expanding its reach in 2020, SERC created a unique space where teachers from various backgrounds could share their experiences and learn from each other, regardless of which robotics platforms they use. Today, SERC provides a diverse group of educators with both general educational insights and deeper, platform-specific strategies, making it an invaluable resource for any educator looking to enhance their STEM and robotics programs.
Highlights of Our Sessions
We have two specialized workshops scheduled, led by Jason McKenna and Jimmy Lin, experts in using robotics to elevate STEM learning. These sessions are designed to provide practical strategies and resources to bring back to your classrooms.
Science and Data Logging with VEX IQ
Presented by Jason McKenna
Date & Time: October 11th, 10:00 AM
In this workshop, participants will explore data science concepts using VEX IQ robots and Python. The focus is on collecting, visualizing, and analyzing data from the robot’s Optical Sensor. Attendees will run the Optical Sensor Data Logging Project, generating CSV files to interpret data like hue values and ambient light responses. They will then create graphs from the data, compare results under different environmental conditions, and discuss real-world applications of these techniques. The goal is to help educators incorporate data science into their classrooms by making data analysis engaging and accessible through robotics.
AI and Computational Thinking: Vision Sensor Decision-Making with Robotics
Presented by Dr. Jimmy Lin
Date & Time: October 10th, 10:05 AM
This workshop explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking using the VEX EXP Vision Sensor. Participants will learn how robots make decisions based on sensor data and how these processes connect to broader AI applications. Through a combination of discussions and demonstrations, attendees will explore the computational frameworks that allow machines to interpret data, make decisions, and solve complex problems. This hands-on session will provide valuable insights into AI-driven decision-making and its implications for STEM education, preparing educators to incorporate these concepts into their classrooms.
Why Attend These Sessions?
These sessions are ideal for educators looking to deepen their understanding of how robotics can go beyond teaching technical skills and become a platform for developing critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Focusing on real-world applications and curriculum-aligned strategies, our goal is to support you in creating a learning environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.
We look forward to connecting with you at SERC and sharing how VEX Robotics can empower and inspire your students. See you there!
Share this on social media:
From Competitor to Coach: Nevin Jeremy Li’s Robotics Journey
Nevin Jeremy Li, from Vancouver, BC, is the driving force behind the Western Pacific Robotics Academy (WPRA). As a former VEX Robotics competitor who participated in the 2011 VEX Robotics World Championship, he’s dedicated the last decade to mentoring teams and building a thriving robotics community.
In 2023, WPRA teams achieved impressive results at two Metro Vancouver tournaments. Three high school teams swept six out of 13 awards at the PYRS Heritage Woods Qualifier, including Tournament Champion and Robot Skills Champion. WPRA’s middle school team also earned top honors at the Gord Trousdell Ten Ton Robotics Tournament.
Nevin launched WPRA to fill a gap in Richmond, his area of Vancouver, where no public high schools have robotics teams. Within a month of starting the non-profit, over fifty students joined. His teams quickly made a name for themselves, becoming Regional Champions and VEX Robotics World Championship Division Finalists in their first year.
Nevin’s advice for new coaches? Be bold and relentless in building your teams.
If you’re a coach with a story, submit yours here to be featured!
Share this on social media:
Until next time, keep inspiring young minds and bringing technology to life in your classrooms! We appreciate your commitment to STEM and look forward to sharing more stories soon.
Here’s what we covered in the last edition of Drive Forward News: