Whether you program them to complete a task or operate them manually, building robots enhances problem-solving skills and critical thinking, broadens creative and innovative reasoning, and encourages a love for mathematics.
Learn how to think like an engineer as you get hands-on with the tools and technologies that power modern robots. In this class, you will:
- Dive into the engineering design process by solving problems creatively
- Design and build robots using the intuitive SnappyXO Design robotics platform
- Explore electronics and circuits through hands-on prototyping and experimentation
- Understand mechanical motion by studying linkages, simple machines, and planar mechanisms using the MotionGen app
- Work with motors and sensors such as DC and servo motors, photocells, thermistors, ultrasonic sensors, and line-tracking sensors
- Program microcontrollers and control robots wirelessly using Arduino, Bluetooth, and the ArduinoBlue app.
- Test different types of robots including two-wheel drive robots, walking robots, and more advanced designs
The engineering adventure will end with an exciting final showcase, where you'll compete in challenges to demonstrate autonomous and remote-controlled robots.
Registration Information
Eligibility
ICPS graduates entering grades 8 or 9 may register for this course.
Cost
There is a fee of $650 to cover the costs of instruction and materials, including the SnappyXO Design-Driven Robotics Kit that participants can take home after the class.
Important Notice
Capacity is limited to the first 35 eligible registrants, with a waitlist of an additional 10. Please understand that completing the registration does not guarantee admission to the program. We will communicate admission status to all who apply. Those who are accepted will be notified and charged the $650 program fee.
Schedule and Location
This class takes place on Saturdays at Stony Brook University. Registrants will receive a full schedule with more information prior to the start of the course.
- Classes begin: September, 2026
- When: Saturdays from 9 – 11:30 am
- Final competition: January, 2027
Directions and Parking
See our Info and Resources page for directions to campus. Parking in the Administration Garage is free on Saturdays.
