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The next generation of explorers are
in our classrooms today.
Bringing Robotics to All
Even with the growing popularity of robotics programs in schools, relatively few students and teachers have the opportunity to have a hands-on experience with robots as tools for teaching and learning. Costs, lack of awareness, lack of training, and perceved complexity can all stand in the way. Also, most robotics programs are run after school for selected students, thus limiting participation even further. Hence, Art and Rene Kimura are helping to bring BrushBots to as many schools as possible and to launch BrushBot Olympics. BrushBots are small robots made from the head of a toothbrush and a micro motor.
Learn more about BrushBots.
BrushBot Resources
For the past couple of years, the Kimuras have been hosting free, evening programs called BrushBot FESTivals in schools across the state. They are extending the BrushBot world to launch BrushBot Olympics. The first global BrushBot Olympics, hosted by Art and Rene Kimura, were organized at the 2011 Japan Super Science Fair in Kyoto, Japan. Held at Ritsumeikan High School (one of Japan's Super Science High Schools) and Ritsumeikan University, the Super Science Fair (a five-day event) attracted 300 participants from 46 schools representing 19 countries. Art and Rene joined three students and four teachers from Waiakea High and five students from Iolani School at the event. BrushBot Olympics are coming to Hawaii‘s public schools. So keep an eye out for them where you live!
General Resources
BrushBot Olympics Background Science and Design/Building Instructions [2-page pdf].
BrushBot Olympics Competition Rules [2-page pdf].
Future Flight Hawai‘i summer program.
Space Explorers BrushBot FESTivals: Family Science Night Flyer [pdf].
Videos and Photos
See more BrushBots in action!
BrushBot Olympics Promotional Video, courtesy of Keith Uehara.
Video of the BrushBot Olympics action at Hawaii Baptist Academy, February 12, 2014.
Photo album from the 2011 Children and Youth Day BrushBot Tournament at the Hawai‘i State Capitol, October, 2011.
Photo album from the BrushBot/Letry Teacher Workshop at Moanalua Middle School, February 12, 2011.
Photos and article from the Star-Advertiser's article by Nancy Arcayna, October, 2010.
Video (Quicktime movie) from a BrushBot FESTival Science Night at Kapolei Elementary School, September, 2010.
Contact for Additional Information
BrushBot Inquiries: Art Kimura, art@higp.hawaii.edu, for further information on sources of BrushBot kits, how to prepare motors, etc.
