The course track is particularly suitable for students interested in hands-on learning with the opportunity to incorporate higher level programming languages and the use of heated and hand tools as they mature. Much of the work is collaborative since students often work closely with a partner. Using robots and build kits students will have fun together covering the fundamentals of problem-solving, logic, and program structures. A robot is an embedded system of software and hardware. Programming and building robots applies science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts. Recreational and Competitive courses are available.
BEGINNER
Jr Tech: Fun with PVC and Circuits
Ages 6-9
Build, create, and engineer cool contraptions in this course! Students will learn fundamental electrical and mechanical engineering concepts through this course, such as simple machines, electric charge, independent and dependent variables, and more!
Request This Course3D Engineer and Print
Ages 8-10
Design in 3D and learn how to use a 3D printer! Take an object of your imagination and turn it into reality with our next-generation, light-cured resin 3D printer. Learn about the design engineering process, then use software tools to create unique models. Watch as computer-designed models come to life on our 3D printer (20 times faster than current print speeds).
Request This CourseJr Tech: Kitchen Chemistry
Ages 6-9
Become a professional scientist and learn fundamental chemistry and engineering concepts! Students will perform fun and engaging experiments with household items to understand critical chemical reactions, properties, and behaviors.
Request This CourseRobotics
Ages 8-12
All levels, beginner to advanced. This course is for students with no experience wanting to learn the basics or those interested in strengthening their skills. FLL competition table challenges will be available in a recreational setting. Students will work in groups of two to build and program robots using the latest EV3 software.
Request This CourseJunior Robotics
Ages 6-8
Learn to construct models and bring them to life using intuitive drag-and-drop software. Program creations to respond to input. Build models featuring working motors and sensors. Explore a series of theme-based activities while developing technical skills and having fun!
Request This CourseINTERMEDIATE
3D Engineer and Print
Ages 10-14
DESIGN YOUR OWN CREATIONS IN 3D AND PRINT! Take an object of your imagination and turn it into reality with our next-generation, light-cured resin 3D printer. Learn about the design engineering process, then use software tools to create unique models. Watch as your creation comes to life on our 3D printer (20 times faster than current print speeds).
Request This CourseElectrical Engineering
Ages 10-14
This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of Electrical Engineering. Students will learn about advanced Circuitry and Electrical Engineering concepts with hands-on experience building basic circuits. They will also learn industry knowledge about binary numbers, the science of circuits, and the importance of electrical engineering in everyday life. This is a great introduction to advanced, college-level concepts, and is a great way for students to get a head start on their future as potential electrical engineers!
Request This CourseUnderwater Robotics
Ages 10+ yrs
Construct submersible ROVs from scratch! Measure, cut, drill and glue PVC pipe. Seal motors, add propellers, solder, attach the circuit board and connect wires. Heated, electric, and cutting hand tools will be used. Design an obstacle course and race bots at the local Community Pool. The course ends with a trip to the local pool. A fun final event! The completed robot is yours to take home and keep at the end of the program.
Hack your underwater bots!
Prerequisite: Underwater Robot course and a working bot
Hacks may include: adding lights, underwater cameras or hydrophones and/or changing the base structural design for elaborate or multiple attachments etc. Material costs will most likely range from $40 to $75 based on the what hacks are chosen. This is a fun extension of a fun project!
Robotics II
Ages 10-14
Recommended: Robotics
All work relates to the annual FLL Regional Competition challenges. Children are invited to join whether they decide to compete in the AZ FLL competition or not. Prior experience with LEFO is recommended. Team placement is not necessary; just a desire to learn along side and support the teams that do compete. For those competing, this course will be mandatory in addition to a 1-2 hour team meeting per week.
Request This CourseADVANCED
Competition Team Robotics
Ages 9-14
Recommended: Robotics I
This course is for students that are registered to compete in the annual one day FLL Regional Qualifier in November and have been invited to join a team Students are assigned to a team based on skill and maturity level. Teams may be 2-10 students. If advanced to the next level, the season could continue past November. The complete FLL season ends with the World//International Competition annually in April. Individual travel arrangements to/from competitions will be made with your team as needed. Participants must be between 9-14 years old to compete. There is a one time team registration fee in addition to tuition.
Drones
Ages 10-12
In this hands-on course, students will explore the exciting and emerging technology related to drones. At the end of the course, they will be able to keep the drone they built! They will gain practical experience with not only drone systems and interfaces, but critical concepts in this field. Some of the key topics covered include: the advances in technology that has led to the boom in the drone industry, flying rules and regulations, and the technological advancements that have completely changed our relationship with this technology. They will also engage in creative activities to help them think about customization & enhancements.
VEX Robotics
Ages 12-17
Prerequisites: Robotics I
This course is great for students with experience in robotics or programming wanting a deeper understanding of programming. VEX competition challenges will be available in a recreational and competitive setting. Opportunities to compete as a team in regional and possibly state competitions are available. Students will work in groups of two to three to build and operate robots. The programming language taught is C. Since programming concepts will be complex, 12+ years and a desire to learn is suggested.
Wearable Technology
Ages 12-17
Wearable technology is a popular new fad in the fashion industry, and is now available at DCR! This class allows students to combine technology and clothing to make modern designs, using products such as LED and Arduino.
Electrical Engineering
Ages 13-17
Build powerful circuits and learn the mechanisms behind powerful technological systems. In this course, students will interact with college-level Electrical Engineering concepts such as binary and discrete mathematics, digital design, and circuit building. They will interact with these concepts in a supportive and nurturing learning environment that will encourage a passion for electrical engineering!
Competition Skills -Vex Robotics
Ages 12-14
Recommended: Team Robotics
All work will relate to Regional VEX Competition challenges. Children are invited to join whether they decide to compete in the VEX competition or not. Prior experience with robotics competitions is useful but not necessary. Team placement is not necessary; just a desire to learn alongside and support the teams that do compete. For those competing, this course will be mandatory in addition to a one (to two hour) team meeting per week.
EXPERT
Drones
Ages 13+
In this hands-on course, students will explore the exciting and emerging technology related to drones. At the end of the course, they will be able to keep the drone they built! They will gain practical experience with not only drone systems and interfaces, but critical concepts in this field. Some of the key topics covered include: the advances in technology that has led to the boom in the drone industry, flying rules and regulations, and the technological advancements that have completely changed our relationship with this technology. They will also engage in creative activities to help them think about customization & enhancements. The course will culminate with an off-site group flight, where students can try multiple custom drones, test their own in the field and use sophisticated flight goggles (location TBD). Parents and onlookers are welcome. Bring your cameras for our one-of-a-kind drone experience, and make lasting memories!
C Programming, Level I
Ages 14+
This course will introduce students to the basics of C#. Learn the fundamentals of C# programming and concepts applicable to robotics and engineering. We walk you through getting the tools, writing code, debugging features, customization, and much more!
C Programming II
Ages 14+
A continuation of C# programming Level I, in which students will expand upon these concepts.