Students use Legos to teach children math, science

"When I was 10 or 11, we didn't have any of this crazy stuff. I always dreamed of playing with robots," said Justin Boyar, "I watched all the movies."

Boyar and students like him participate in the SCC Lego Robotics Outreach Program at the local Boys and Girls Club. Many of the kids they serve come from single-parent homes.

"This is a very first for me," said Boyar. "I've never actually been a mentor before."

Math professor Bill Johnson who began the program last summer said, "My overall goal is to promote math and science. The 8-to-12-year-olds are who we need to reach."

During the program, many learning opportunities benefit both the kids and SCC student mentors.

"They have to calibrate their robot and then the challenge at the end of that class is to run an obstacle course. First one across the finish line wins," said Johnson.

Pursuing an associate degree in science at SCC, Boyar plans to major in astrophysics.

"Not only did I learn a lot about robots, it helped me with physics, math and a little bit about teaching," said Boyar. Mentors also earn one credit of community service.

Boyar said there were two kids in particular that taught him something unexpected.

"It's kind of silly but I'm personally scared of having kids," said Boyar. "When I saw Sam and Danny, they gave me hope that if I ever have kids they might not be crazy."

At the end of the 10-week session, the kids demonstrate what they've learned at a 'Robocital' for their parents.

One team from the Boys and Girls Club participated in the First Lego League Competition, where they were judged on robotic design, accomplished tasks, teamwork and presentation.

"Kids continuously surprise me. They're so smart," said Boyar.

Boyar said one of the main reasons he got involved was to get some one-on-one time with Johnson.

"It's almost like he's a mentor for me," said Boyar.

Club members can also participate in a Robolab. At these meetings, students can design, build and calibrate a Lego robot.

Johnson hopes to take two SCC teams to compete in the Avnet TechGames on April 4. The winning team earns a $1,000 scholarship.

Linda Knop, a former SCC mentor said, "I highly recommend it for anyone who enjoys children, math, engineering, art, Legos, programming, science, competition or any of the above."

For more information, contact bill.johnson@sccmail.maricopa.edu.