VEX Robotics Educators Conference

Large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT are non-human intelligences that combine encyclopedic knowledge with complex but imperfect reasoning. When we connect an LLM to an autonomous mobile robot, we conjure up an intelligent agent that shares our physical world and can interact with us in many possible ways. Imagine playing "hospital" with a toy robot that knows enough medicine to pass board licensing exams. My students and I have been building an interface between GPT-4o and VEX AIM that allows us to explore this potential of AI-powered robot toys. I will describe our results to date and what the future may hold.

Drawing from research on computational thinking and STEM learning, this session explores how physical and computational understanding develop together in the robotics classroom. Learn practical strategies for creating learning experiences and skills enhance each other, leading to deeper STEM comprehension.

Teachers will explore how to incorporate the Tug of War STEM Lab into classroom competitions, making learning interactive and fun.

This 123 Hands-On session addresses strategies for including students with disabilities in robotics through an exploration of inclusive and accessible practices. We will apply Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and High Leverage Practices (HLP) with specific action steps, examples, and tools. Throughout this session, resources and tools will be shared and there will be opportunities to reflect and consider applications within a wide range of instructional contexts. Whether you are a novice to these practices or experiences, this session will strengthen how to consider approaches for including all learners in robotics, frame our instruction, and address learner variability.

Learn how to transition students seamlessly from block-based to text-based coding using VEXcode VR Switch Mode. This session is perfect for teachers aiming to advance their students' coding abilities from basic blocks to more sophisticated text coding techniques.

Be one of the very first to experience VEX AIM - the robot that will help revolutionize Computer Science Education. This workshop will feature how to get started with VEX AIM and explore introductory coding activities with VEX AIM

Uncover the potential of robotics in Career and Technical Education (CTE). This workshop will explore the VEX CTE Workcell, offering strategies for teaching automation and robotics skills essential for future-ready students.

Humans vary. We have different desires, needs, cultures, beliefs, and abilities. About 16% of us have some kind of a disability and this changes how someone might see, hear, feel, move, or even think. All of us, every single one, lose some abilities as we age.This is not necessarily good or bad, but represents part of what it means to be people. Our technologies and how we use them from birth to death, under the large tent of accessibility, forces us to think about all of these variations creatively. However, accessibility research has historically relied on some rather odd choices that limit us from tackling many kinds of problems, especially those involving computer graphics. In this talk, we reimagine what might be possible with accessibility if we throw it all out, rethink it from first principles, and at least try to reinvent it.

Discover how to merge coding with creativity using the Parade Float STEM Lab. This workshop emphasizes building engaging and imaginative projects with VEX GO.

This workshop explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking using the VEX AI Vision Sensor. Participants will learn how robots make decisions based on sensor data and how these processes connect to broader AI applications. Through a combination of discussions and demonstrations, attendees will explore the computational frameworks that allow machines to interpret data, make decisions, and solve complex problems.

This session will explore the development and impact of Unified Robotics, an inclusive STEM initiative co-led by Andrew Fee of Special Olympics Pennsylvania and Dr. Eddie Willson of Woodland Hills School District. Designed to foster collaboration between students with and without intellectual disabilities, Unified Robotics merges robotics education with social inclusion, promoting authentic teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. The presenters will share practical insights from implementing the program in schools, highlight student success stories, and offer guidance for educators looking to launch similar initiatives that advance equity and engagement in STEM learning.

Step behind the scenes at the VEX Robotics World Championship and explore the exclusive areas where teams from around the world collaborate and prepare their robots for competition. Take this opportunity to ask questions, engage directly with the teams, and get familiar with the layout so you can enjoy the competition at your leisure throughout the three days. After the tour, join us back in the conference area for Networking Drinks, where you can connect with peers and reflect on your behind-the-scenes experience.

Wrap up the first day of the conference by joining us for an informal and engaging Community Connections Happy Hour! Unwind, connect with fellow educators, and share ideas in a relaxed setting within the PD+ Community. Whether you’re exchanging classroom strategies or simply building new relationships, this is the perfect opportunity to foster collaboration and inspire growth.

Discover how strategic partnerships and robotics education inspire and equip students, educators, and families with the skills and knowledge they need for the future. See how collaboration between industry, higher education, and schools is transforming K-8 education and strengthening communities.

In this session, you'll gain insights from the very heart of our community—our students. Hear directly from participants about their journey, challenges, triumphs, and the invaluable lessons learned through their involvement in VEX Robotics. Their firsthand experiences underscore the powerful role of VEX Competitions in shaping confident, creative, and collaborative innovators of tomorrow. Additionally, we're honored to feature insights from the CEO of the Robotics Education & Competition (REC) Foundation, offering a unique perspective on the vision and direction of VEX Robotics Competitions. Learn about the foundation's commitment to enriching student experiences and expanding access to STEM education globally.

Experience three different coding methods with Touch, the Coder, and VEXcode 123, gaining practical skills to make coding instruction more engaging and approachable. Discover how these tools can transform your teaching by offering hands-on, accessible ways to explore coding concepts.

Educators will gain hands-on experience teaching Python fundamentals, helping students apply coding concepts to solve challenges in an engaging, interactive environment.

This workshop will explore the inclusive capabilities of the VEX Continuum, showcasing how to make STEM education accessible for all learners. Learn strategies to engage students of diverse abilities through hands-on coding and robotics.

Discover how to bring STEM competitions into your classroom using VEX IQ. Explore interactive STEM Labs like Tug of War and gain practical insights to foster collaboration and problem-solving.

This workshop explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking using the VEX AI Vision Sensor. Participants will learn how robots make decisions based on sensor data and how these processes connect to broader AI applications. Through a combination of discussions and demonstrations, attendees will explore the computational frameworks that allow machines to interpret data, make decisions, and solve complex problems.

Explore Python programming using VEXcode VR. Educators will gain hands-on experience in teaching Python, showing students how to apply this versatile language to solve intricate problems in a virtual setting.

Be one of the very first to experience VEX AIM - the robot that will help revolutionize Computer Science Education. This workshop will feature how to get started with VEX AIM and explore introductory coding activities with VEX AIM

This workshop is to introduce relevant computer science concepts using the VEX CTE ecosystem. Learn how computer science can be brought off the screen in a hands-on, engaging, and collaborative way using a 6-Axis Robotic Arm to simulate factory automation.

Join us as we explore the evolution of a comprehensive STEM education pipeline, from foundational robotics in elementary and middle schools to specialized AI and engineering pathways in our upcoming STEM high school. Discover how hands-on experiences with VEX IQ robots, advanced VEX Workcell, and thematic curriculum integration are cultivating a generation of future innovators. Learn practical strategies for building a cohesive STEM program that connects classroom learning to real-world applications, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

This workshop is designed to cultivate AI literacy in elementary students through computational thinking and VEX GO. This session features activities to help students differentiate between artificial intelligence and human intelligence, focusing on the AI4K12 Big Idea of Perception, and specifically how our senses differ from a robot’s sensors. By connecting to other subjects like art (e.g., hue values) and linking to students’ real-world experiences, the workshop offers a truly interdisciplinary and relevant approach to early AI education.

This workshop explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking using the VEX AI Vision Sensor. Participants will learn how robots make decisions based on sensor data and how these processes connect to broader AI applications. Through a combination of discussions and demonstrations, attendees will explore the computational frameworks that allow machines to interpret data, make decisions, and solve complex problems.

Be part of the excitement at the VEX Robotics World Championship Finals in the Dome! Watch as the top teams from VEX VRC High School compete for the ultimate championship title in a thrilling conclusion to the season. Stay for the highly anticipated Game Reveal and get an exclusive first look at the new challenge for the upcoming year.

This session explores how to make STEM education truly accessible to every student. Moving beyond viewing STEM as just another subject, this talk demonstrates how thoughtful accessibility in STEM education benefits all learners. Learn about practical solutions and innovative approaches that are transforming STEM classrooms into inclusive spaces where every student can thrive.

Learn how to integrate artificial intelligence concepts into your curriculum with VEX AIM, gaining practical strategies to bring AI to life in your classroom. This session offers hands-on, project-based approaches to make teaching AI meaningful and accessible.

This workshop explores the relationship between Artificial Intelligence and Computational Thinking using the VEX AI Vision Sensor. Participants will learn how robots make decisions based on sensor data and how these processes connect to broader AI applications. Through a combination of discussions and demonstrations, attendees will explore the computational frameworks that allow machines to interpret data, make decisions, and solve complex problems.

In this session participants will learn about the variety of ways schools can implement VEX products both during the school day and outside of the school day in elementary through high school to maximize student learning experiences.

This speech will explore the transformative potential of integrated STEM and robotics education in reshaping the landscape of K-12 learning. Prof. Feng-Kaung will share insights from his researches and practical applications, showcasing how interdisciplinary approaches and robotics foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and self-directed learning among students. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for designing effective iSTEM curriculum and learning activities, leveraging robotics as a powerful tool to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.

This workshop is designed to cultivate AI literacy in elementary students through computational thinking and VEX 123. This session features activities to help students differentiate between artificial intelligence and human intelligence, focusing on the AI4K12 Big Idea of Perception, and specifically how our senses differ from a robot’s sensors. By connecting to other subjects like art (e.g., hue values) and linking to students’ real-world experiences, the workshop offers a truly interdisciplinary and relevant approach to early AI education.

Learn how to align your teaching strategies with industry demands using VEX CTE tools. This workshop will focus on creating dynamic, real-world robotics challenges to prepare students for careers in STEM.

As the VEX Robotics Educators Conference comes to a close, join Jason McKenna, VP, Global Educational Strategy, for a short but meaningful send-off. Reflect on the connections made, the ideas shared, and the inspiration gained over the past few days. This isn’t goodbye—it’s "see you next year!" Let’s stay connected, keep the conversations going, and continue shaping the future of STEM education together.

Transform your classroom into a hub of innovation and collaboration using VEX IQ. This workshop will demonstrate how to design competitions that encourage critical thinking and teamwork.

This session provides educators with hands-on experience, practical teaching strategies, and real-world applications to make Python coding accessible and engaging for students.