Robots are fun! Watching small mechanical creatures scurrying about, resolutely pursuing some course of action is engaging. Unlike computer simulations that encourage us to enter the computer’s virtual world, robots operate in the real world, where they are bound by the same constraints that we are.

The Lego NXT is a very sophisticated but easy to use robot. It has individually controllable motors with built in rotation sensors, a touch sensor to respond to contact with other objects, a light sensor that can recognize shades of lighting, a sound sensor that can be used to control the robot or to make announcements, an ultrasonic sensor that provides capabilities similar to those used by bats for target and obstacle detection, and a compass for use in navigation.

NXT uses a very easy to learn programming language called NXT-G. Drag and drop control blocks are utilized to instruct the robot to perform designated tasks and how to respond to various situations.  The programs are written on a PC and then downloaded to the robot. Students will build robots to compete in a number of exciting contests throughout the course to include maze navigation, line following, robot billiards, sumo wrestler, and battlebot.