DkIT hosts VexIQ Robotics challenge
DUNDALK Institute of Technology (DkIT) hosted its first ever VEX IQ Primary School Regional Competition. The initiative is supported by Dell and was organised by the Computing and Engineering Departments at DkIT.
Eleven primary schools from across the North Leinster region participated in the competition which introduces students to the exciting world of robotics education.
The VEX Robotics Challenge calls on students at primary and secondary school level to work in teams to design, build and program a robot. They then compete in a spectacular robotic competition. Preparation with students has been taking place since September. DKIT held its first scrimmages in November of last year to prepare students for the competition phases.
Participating primary schools included St Mary’s National School, Knockbridge; Scoil Naomh Feichin; Swords ETNS; Scoil Mhuire na nGael, Dundalk; CBS Primary Dundalk; Aston Village ETNS; St Buites NS, Tenure; St Marys Parish Primary School; Scoil Náisiúnta Muire gan Smál, Termonfeckin; Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál, Kilkerley and Francis St CBS, Dublin.
Brendan Ryder, Head of Department of Visual & Human Centred Computing at DkIT said: “As an Institute we’re passionate about showcasing the exciting side of STEM subjects and inspiring students to become interested in science, technology, engineering and maths. It is wonderful to witness STEM come alive through competition. Ultimately, we hope programmes like VEX Robotics will have an impact on the choices students make when preparing for their Leaving Cert and when selecting courses for third level education. During the same week, DkIT also organised a VEX EDR Workshop for secondary school students from across the region. The EDR Challenge is a more advanced robotics challenge for teens up to 18 years old. Participating secondary schools included Ard Schoil Ris, Ardee Community School, Castleblayney College, Colaiste Dhulaigh Post Primary, Dundalk Grammar School, O Carolan College, Our Lady’s Secondary School, Patrician High School, Sacred Heart Secondary School, St Kevin’s College, St Mary’s College, St Oliver’s Community School and St Joseph’s Secondary School.