Caloundra students geared up for Robo Cup

Published Thursday, 27 March, 2014 at 12:44 PM

Minister for Education, Training and Employment
The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek

A group of Sunshine Coast students are leading the way in science and technology studies with their preparation for the 2014 Moreton Bay Regional Robo Cup Junior competition.

Minister for Education, Training and Employment John-Paul Langbroek said the Year 7 students from Caloundra State School were in the process of building artificial intelligence robots – highlighting the innovative science and technology programs available in our schools.

He said the students, who are members of the school’s Robotics Club, have designed and tested robots in preparation for the annual competition, to be held in August this year.

"Robotics is an extremely challenging discipline that combines planning, problem-solving, and advanced critical thinking skills," Mr Langbroek said.

“It’s fun and challenging, and also an excellent learning tool for our next generation of leaders in the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

“Engaging students in STEM subjects is critical to our economy being able to innovate and compete successfully in international markets.

“That's why the Queensland Government has a variety of strategies to encourage study in STEM fields, such as Curriculum into the Classroom science resources, the Peter Doherty Awards, and partnerships with the CSIRO and the University of Queensland SPARQ-ed project."

Mr Langbroek said the competition would see autonomous robots rescuing “victims” from a pretend chemical spill after speeding through a maze of obstacles.

He praised the students for their participation in the challenging extra-curricular project.

“The Year 7 students of Caloundra State School’s Robotics Club have really taken to this initiative, showing early interest in a growing field of work and study," Mr Langbroek said.

"The Newman Government recognises how important the ongoing development of talent in the science sector is and Caloundra's involvement in initiatives like this help to encourage interest in science and innovation amongst young Queenslanders."

The students’ robots will compete at the Robo Cup Junior competition on 7 August 2014.

It will be the third time Caloundra State School students have entered the competition. They hope to improve on their previous semi-final berth.

[ENDS] 27 March 2014​​​​​

Media contact: Danita Goodwin 0439 886 652