The University of VictoriaB次元官网网址檚 department of electrical and computer engineering is strengthening future learning for the Mount Douglas Secondary School robotics club by donating 15 robotics kits to their program.

Packed with sensor controllers and mechanical components, the kits let students unleash their creativity, said Kevin Wilcox, teacher and robotics team coach.

"This is going to be a huge contribution to our program. One of the biggest emphases of this team is the design process, which basically means figuring out what the problem is, and then coming up with solutions on how to solve it," Wilcox said.

Having these kits means students can perform hands-on work and are getting closer to having a one-to-one ratio of students to robots.

"We have the opportunity to iterate quicker, which will showcase an idea of a fast-paced industry to our students," Wilcox said. 

The partnership began when UVic professor Dr. Lin Cai contacted the school.

"Dr. Cai reached out to our program to see if there was anything UVic could provide," Wilcox said. "It started off as an opportunity for our students to visit UVicB次元官网网址檚 lab, and it transformed into a donation of 15 kits that will benefit the students immensely."

Two robotics programs are available to students at Mount Douglas: one integrated into the timetable and the other offered after school. Nearly 130 students are involved in these programs, which fall under the school's applied design skills and technology offerings.

"We want to make sure that we are supporting the future generation of engineers," Dr. Cai said. "These robotic kits are going to give these high school students a great chance to get a glimpse into the future."

With automated technology rapidly growing, Dr. Cai understands the importance of bringing awareness to the program. 

"By making these connections with local schools, we offer prospective students the chance to see what our program could offer them in the future," Dr. Cai said.