In our robotics workshops, the girls construct and program LEGO NXT robotics kits, which includes a central CPU brick that is programmed using a simple, visual interface to use components such as light sensors, colour sensors, sound sensors, motors, sound outputs, etc. The lessons have been designed to engage students in a range of engineering topics in a way that is fun and creative.

As well as building and programming the robots, the workshop includes a brief introduction to the different types of engineering, and how engineers impact our daily lives.

Our robotics workshops are free of charge for all schools – our volunteers are motivated only by their passion to share the excitement of engineering with the next generation!

As the specifics of this programme differ between chapters, please contact your local chapter for more information.

Testimonials

From a student:

"Before I did the Robogals program, I thought engineering and robot were complicated and to be honest, I wasn't really looking forward to it at all. During the program you learn so much about developing robots, about using different software. The Robogals program really gives you a different perspective on engineering and technology. I definitely think that girls should consider careers in engineering and technology – it’s not just for the boys!"

-- Felicity H, year 7 student, Lauriston Girls School

From a teacher:

"In addition to the programming, the Robogals also discussed career pathways with the girls, and since the workshop many have discussed the possibility of studying engineering and technology with their teachers and friends. As a teacher of IT, I would strongly recommend the Robogals workshops."

-- Nathaniel Bradshaw, Discipline Area Coordinator of IT, Caroline Chisholm Catholic College

From a parent:

"Because of my passion for engineering, which I had as a kid, and which still continues today as an engineering academic, I added a LEGO Mindstorms kit to my kids' toy collection when they were fairly young. However, my 11-year-old daughter did not really show any interest in the LEGO Mindstorms kit at home, until the robotic session by Robogals at Lauriston Girls School, where she studies. This session inspirited her so much that she continued making robots at home and also developed several complicated models which she took back to her class to demonstrate. I believe that Robogals have done an excellent job in generating an interest for engineering in these young female minds."

-- Shanika Karunasekera, Senior Lecturer, Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering, University of Melbourne