Encouraging Creativity: The Role of BHS Robotics in Strengthening Student Knowledge in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, as well as in Competitive Settings
In the heart of Berkley, the Berkley High School (BHS) Robotics program, fondly known as DaBears Team 247, continues to captivate students and inspire a passion for technology. This innovative learning environment offers an interdisciplinary STEM experience that simulates real-world engineering projects, setting it apart as one of the top 10% of similar initiatives[1].
The program is renowned for fostering key skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. Students collaborate in diverse roles, working together to design, build, and programme robots for the FIRST Robotics Competition[1]. This division of labour requires coordination, communication, and collective problem-solving to achieve a common goal - building and competing with robots[1].
The challenges presented in robotics competitions demand students to design solutions to mechanical and programming obstacles, iterate on their designs, and troubleshoot issues such as robot stability or coding bugs. They learn to refine strategies continuously and think critically about how to optimize performance[2]. By engaging in 3D modeling, programming with visual or block-based coding platforms, and applying engineering principles, students create novel robotic systems, encouraged to develop reliable yet creative solutions[1][2].
The real-world applications of the BHS Robotics program align strongly with careers and skills in both engineering and coding. Students practice designing mechanical systems, assembling components, and managing the integration of hardware and software, mirroring industrial engineering workflows seen in smart factory environments[4]. Programming the robots involves logical control structures, timing, and sometimes sensor feedback, using platforms that teach foundational coding skills transferable to software development and automation technologies[1][2].
Emulating real production and engineering processes, the program prepares students for future roles where teamwork, efficient problem-solving, and innovation drive success. The experience is further enriched by mentors who bridge academic concepts with practical applications, creating a pipeline of future engineers, programmers, and STEM professionals[1][4].
BHS Robotics continues to make a significant impact on student engagement, with a year-on-year increase of 25%[2]. The program also collaborates with industry leaders for mentorship opportunities and real-world project access[2]. To keep costs low, BHS Robotics utilises open-source software, reducing licensing costs, and demonstrates industrial utility through automation and efficiency enhancement in manufacturing processes[3].
In a bid to promote diversity and inclusion, BHS Robotics is also developing initiatives to encourage students from all backgrounds to participate[1]. The program secures funding through sponsorships and community support, hosting workshops and public events to inspire younger students and foster community engagement[1].
With plans to integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning in the coming years, BHS Robotics continues to push the boundaries of what a high school robotics program can achieve, setting a high standard for STEM education.
[1] BHS Robotics Official Website [2] BHS Robotics Annual Report 2020 [3] BHS Robotics Budget Report 2021 [4] BHS Robotics Mentor Interviews 2021
- The BHS Robotics program, through its interdisciplinary STEM experience, encourages continuous improvement and innovation, fostering a passion for technology and robotics in students.
- By collaborating in diverse roles, students develop key skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation, simulating real-world engineering projects in preparation for future careers in engineering and coding.
- In the FIRST Robotics Competition, students learn to design, build, and program robots, refining strategies and thinking critically about optimization, while applying engineering principles and coding platforms for 3D modeling and programming.
- The BHS Robotics program's emphasis on teamwork, efficient problem-solving, and innovation mirrors modern smart factory environments, preparing students for careers involving automation, technology, and science.
- In an effort to promote diversity and inclusion, BHS Robotics is developing initiatives to encourage participation from students of all backgrounds, securing funding through sponsorships and community support while integrating workshops, public events, and plans to incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning in the coming years.
