TAPPS Robotics FAQ

 

What is FIRST ®?

FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is the world’s leading youth- serving nonprofit advancing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Founded by inventor Dean Kamen in 1989, FIRST has evolved into a global movement by engaging millions of people with a proven game-changer for preparing kids to solve the world’s greatest problems. FIRST programs inspire innovation and leadership through engaging, hands-on robotics challenges developed to ignite curiosity and passion in students in grades K-12. FIRST builds powerful mentorship relationships between young people and STEM professionals, helping kids gain confidence to explore the innovation process while they learn valuable science, engineering, technology, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. FIRST creates the people who will change the world – today and tomorrow. 

For more information, visit https://www.firstinspires.org/

 

What is FIRST® Tech Challenge? 

  • It’s way more than building robots. International FIRST Tech Challenge teams (up to 15 members, grades 7-12) are challenged to design, build, program, and operate robots to play a floor game in an alliance format. 
  • Participants call it “the hardest fun you’ll ever have!” Guided by adult coaches and mentors, students develop STEM skills and practice engineering principles (like keeping an engineering notebook), while realizing the value of hard work, innovation, and sharing ideas. 
  • The robot kit is reusable from year-to-year and can be programmed using a variety of languages. Teams also must raise funds, design and market their team brand, and do 
community outreach for which they can win awards. 

For more information, visit https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/ftc

 

What does every FIRST Tech Challenge team need?

    • Two or more screened adult mentors/coaches who are willing and motivated to coach the team through the build and competition season, and beyond! 
    • Other adults can volunteer to help with administration, fundraising, community outreach, technical advising, and other tasks. 
    • A suitable meeting place and space to design and build a robot about the size of a microwave oven. 
    • A standard kit of robot parts and a common set of game and robot rules issued by FIRST Tech Challenge.
    • A budget and a fundraising plan. 
    • The desire to learn, explore, strategize, build camaraderie, share ideas and talents, make new 
friends, be accepted, and HAVE FUN! 


 

Do we have to be a registered FTC Team to compete in the TAPPS State Robotics Competition?

Yes.  Teams are required to comply with FTC game rules and code of conduct during the competition.  Teams may be jump start teams, registered with FIRST.

 

How do we start a FTC Robotics Team?

https://www.firstinspires.org/robotics/ftc/start-a-team

What game mode will teams compete in at the TAPPS State Robotics Championship?

 

We have multiple teams at our school. May they all participate in the TAPPS State Robotics Championship?

Yes.  Schools can enter multiple teams as long as they are legal FTC Teams and that you pay for each team’s registration.

How are the WINNING teams recognized?

Eligible teams will be recognized based on their performance at the TAPPS State Robotics Championship. Non-robot performance based award will also be presented at this event. Exact awards will be announced at a later date.  

For other questions, please contact the TAPPS office (info@localhost).