Sheila G. Kelley
Two new science-related 4-H projects have been introduced
recently — robotics and geospatial technology programs with
GPS/GIS.
These projects fulfill the commitment Colorado 4-H made to
engage one million youth in science, technology, engineering and
math (STEM) by 2013.
4-H members learn about what a robot is, how to build one and
program the robot to use sensors to interact with its environment.
Working collaboratively, 4-H team members make decisions and
organize information the activities.
Robotics is an idea way to introduce STEM while teaching life
skills to youth ages eight through 18.
Robotics teaches 4-Hers programming concepts using the ROBOLAB
language. Robotics also teaches more advanced topics in both
programming and mechanics.
Youth advance their programming techniques, use subroutines and
variables to achieve more precise movements of their robots and
build their own custom functions while they practice and develop
creative thinking, decision making and leadership skills.
A partnership with ESRI, the premier geographic information
systems (GIS) software supplier, has allowed 4-H to utilize
geographic positing systems (GPS) and GIS to implement community
service projects.
Nine Colorado 4-H programs received software grants, site
licenses and training from ESRI — valued at up to $35,000 each — to
conduct geospatial community service projects. The goal is to
gather community-based data that will better inform decision makers
about new and emerging community issues and areas for
improvement.
Projects have included developing a new community park;
identifying potential mosquito breeding sites to mitigate the
spread of West Nile Virus; mapping the spread of invasive species;
developing a community tree inventory; marking buffer zones around
raptor nesting sites; and identifying litter patterns at a youth
conference center.
If your child is interested in joining 4-H or you would like
further information on the 4-H program, please contact either
Elbert County Extension office at 303-621-3162 or 719-541-2361. 4-H
is a cooperative effort between CSU Extension and Elbert
County.
