Online Summer STEM & Design Camp Classes

Ages: 5-7 (but 8-9 year olds might like it, too!); Cost: $75 for the kit

Description: The Junior STEM & LEGO kit is a fun collection of 10 STEM activities and 16 LEGO challenges that cover concepts in engineering, design, physics, and just plain old creativity! The kit contains instructions for all activities and we provide most of the supplies you need, including an assortment of LEGOs. Assistance from someone at home may be needed. There is no online instruction but we would love to receive photos of your creations so we can post to our social media! Photos can be sent to camp@roboticsandbeyond.org.

Items needed from home:

• A pen or something with similar weight
• Scissors
• Crayons or markers for coloring
• At least one book that is somewhat heavy
• Something you can use as a small ramp (example: a binder, or something you can incline)

Purchase of the kit: The Junior STEM & LEGO kit can be purchased by selecting the Buy Now button below. It may be picked up by appointment at Robotics And Beyond, Makery Coworking, 20 Bank St, New Milford CT 06776. Kits may also be shipped for an additional $15 charge. Please choose pickup or ship from the dropdown menu below.

Ages: 8-14; Monday – Friday, at 10:45-Noon; June 29, July 6, 20, 27, August 10. See details about robotics kit below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45-noon. Participation by video or chat during this time is optional but will be a good opportunity to get help and show the instructor and other students what you have accomplished. The online interaction will use either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Build a robot at home using a kit of parts and learn fundamentals of programming and engineering with LEGO’s programmable NXT bricks, motors, sensors and Mindstorms software. Students work through a series of simple tasks and then choose from a list of more challenging but attainable tasks. Instructions will be printed and included in each kit but also available online. For information on LEGO NXT and EV3 robotics systems and how they are different or similar here is a great link: http://robotsquare.com/2013/07/16/ev3-nxt-compatibility/

Robotics kit: There is a $200 refundable deposit for the robotics parts. Kits of parts for the robotics topic may be picked up at Robotics And Beyond, Makery Coworking, 20 Bank St, New Milford CT 06776, 9am-6pm on the Friday before your week of camp, or on the weekend by appointment. Kits may also be shipped for an additional $15 charge. The $200 deposit will be refunded upon the return of all robotics parts in good condition to Robotics And Beyond.

Requirements:

• Only an interest in building and programming robots!
• Computer requirements: A link will be provided for free software for programming the NXT robot. Any WIN 8 or 10 or Apple computer will run the software. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Ages: 9-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 2:15 pm; July 6, 20, 27, August 3.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00 to 2:15pm using Google Classroom with video by Google Meet. Students will receive login information several days before the class. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends.

Description: No keyboard skills necessary. Students must create a Scratch account at home before the class or provide an email address that can be used to create an account during the first class. Scratch is a “drag and drop” programming language developed at MIT. It is free and easy to use with no risk to a home computer as it is done completely online. Scratch is excellent for learning all of the fundamental concepts of programming in any language and suitable for very young as well as older students. Scratch can also be used to create very complex programs for games and simulations in many subjects like physics, math, computers, and engineering. Students will create their own personal Scratch account, learn how to begin and save projects, and create simple programs and games like Maze and Pong. Students will learn how to find interesting projects online and see the actual code, and use and change the code to create their own games or animations.

Visit the Scratch website for more information about Scratch and to create an account.

Requirements:

• No prior coding experience is needed. Some experience in Scratch or with activities at Code.org is helpful but not required.
• This class requires the ability to read the words on simple instruction blocks and the ability to use a mouse.
• An email address is required for the student to create an account with Scratch. No software installation is needed. All software is used online through the Scratch.mit.edu website.

Ages: 10-16 or by permission;

July 13: Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 2:15 pm

July 20, 27, August 3: Monday – Friday, at 2:45 – 4:00 pm

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00 to 2:15pm or 2:45-4:00pm using Google Classroom with video by Google Meet. Students will receive login information several days before the class. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends.

Description: Students with some experience in Scratch and having their own accounts will learn more tricks and skills and fundamentals of coding as they create more difficult games and animations. Techniques to be learned include gravity, momentum and switches. Students will learn more advanced coding skills and concepts like lists, variables, operators, defining procedures, conditionals, and loops, and learning to debug problems in their code.

Scratch is a “drag and drop” programming language developed at MIT. It is free and easy to use with no risk to a home computer as it is done completely online. Scratch is excellent for learning all of the fundamental concepts of programming in any language and suitable for very young as well as older students. Scratch can also be used to create very complex programs for games and simulations in many subjects like physics, math, computers, and engineering.

Visit the Scratch website for more information about Scratch and to create an account.

Requirements:

• Some experience in Scratch is required and students must have their own Scratch account.
• This class requires the ability to read the words on simple instruction blocks and the ability to use a mouse.

Ages: 12-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 10:45-Noon; June 29, July 13, 20

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45-noon using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

 Description: Students will begin learning the Java language and syntax with simple programs of 5-20 lines. After learning the basics, continue with more complex and longer programs to build your knowledge of syntax, program structure and fundamental programming concepts. Java is a widely used language for many server and web applications and is also the basis for Advanced Placement (AP) programming and computer science classes in high school and many college classes. It is the most popular programming language for running the operations of businesses, schools and other organizations and is used on more than one billion devices worldwide. Java is more challenging to learn as a first language than Python but is more valuable for long-term involvement with coding, learning other languages and understanding how different languages work together in a single software program or platform.

Requirements:

• Some prior coding experience in any language (including Scratch or activities at Code.org) is helpful but not required.
• Some keyboard (typing) ability is important for this class since students will copy some lines of code and fix errors using their keyboard.
• Installation of the Java editor BlueJay on the students home computer. Instructions will be provided for the software.

Ages: 13-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 10:45-Noon; July 6, 27

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45-noon using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Students will review basic skills, concepts and functions and then gain deeper skills. Students will create more complex and longer programs, using interesting projects, to build a knowledge of important vocabulary, coding grammar (syntax), program structure and fundamental programming concepts.

Requirements:

• Prior experience with Java is required, such as in our Java 1 class, personal projects, on-line classes or a class at a school.
• Keyboard (typing) ability is important for this class.
• Installation of the Java editor Eclipse on the students home computer. Instructions will be provided for the software.

Ages: 13-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 9:00-11:30 am; August 3. See cost details below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 9:00-11:30am using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Advanced Java serves as a review of Robotics and Beyond Java 1 and 2 and expands on the basics of these classes to use Java to implement complex algorithms and learn abstract programming concepts. The algorithms (standard sorts and searches) and concepts (object orientation, abstraction, and recursion) are fundamental to programming and can be applied to many other languages besides Java. Many of the topics covered in this course are important in AP Computer Science A and introductory college-level computer science courses.

Requirements:

• Students are expected to have already taken Robotics and Beyond Java 1 and 2, or have adequate experience with Java. An interest in progressing in Java and learning abstract programming concepts is a must.
• Keyboard (typing) ability is important for this class.
• Installation of the Java editor Eclipse on the students home computer. Instructions will be provided for the software.

Cost: $150

Ages: 11-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 2:15 pm; July 6 and 20.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00 to 2:15pm using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Python is an excellent first language for text-based coding and for learning fundamentals of programming and is also becoming the Language-of-Choice at more and more universities for introducing programming concepts and skills. Python is also very valuable for careers and personal interests. Python is a common language for Linux-based operating systems and software and for Raspberry Pi microcomputers. This class begins with an introduction to the four basic concepts common to every language of programming. Students will work through a series of exercises to understand the concepts and begin to learn the Python language syntax and structure. Following this class, students will be ready for more advanced classes in Python or be well prepared to begin learning other programming languages such as Java, JavaScript, C or HTML with Robotics And Beyond, in school or online.

Visit the Python website to download the required software to program in Python and to learn more about it.

Requirements:

• Some prior coding experience in any language (including Scratch or activities at Code.org) is helpful but not required.
• Some keyboard (typing) ability is important for this class since students will copy lines of code and fix errors using their keyboard.
• Installation of the Python editor on the student’s home computer. Go to this link for downloads. https://www.python.org/  If needed, help will be provided upon registration for loading the software.

Ages: 13-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 2:15 pm; July 13 and 27.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00 to 2:15pm using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: This class will review basic skills and concepts and move on to more complex and longer programs, using interesting projects, to build a knowledge of important vocabulary, coding grammar (syntax), program structure and fundamental programming concepts. Students will be introduced to real-world applications for Python used in careers in manufacturing, publishing and other fields. Python is an excellent first language for text-based coding and for learning fundamentals of programming and is also becoming the Language-of-Choice at more and more universities for introducing programming concepts and skills. Python is also very valuable for careers and personal interests. Python is a common language for Linux-based operating systems and software and for Raspberry Pi microcomputers  and even for animated movies.

Visit the Python website to learn more about it and to download the required software to program in Python.

Requirements:

• Ages 13+ or by permission. Basic experience in Python is required such as our Python 1 class, on-line tutorials or personal projects in Raspberry Pi or other topics.
• Keyboard (typing) ability is important for this class.
• Installation of the Python editor on the student’s home computer. Go to this link for downloads. https://www.python.org/  If needed, help will be provided upon registration for loading the software.

THIS CLASS HAS BEEN CANCELED

Ages: 13-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 3:30 pm; August 3. See cost below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00 to 3:30pm using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Advanced Python serves as a review of Robotics And Beyond Python 1 and 2 and expands on the basics of these classes to use Python to implement fundamental algorithms and learn abstract programming concepts, which are important for many other programming languages. Many of the topics covered in this course will introduce upper-level high school and beginning undergraduate computer science material.

Visit the Python website to learn more about it and to download the required software to program in Python.

Requirements:

• Students are expected to have already taken Robotics and Beyond Python 1 and 2, or have adequate experience with Python.
• Good keyboard (typing) ability is important for this class due to the amount of code entry and debugging involved.
• Installation of the Python editor on the student’s home computer. Go to this link for downloads. https://www.python.org/  If needed, help will be provided upon registration for loading the software.

Cost: $150

Ages: 9-14; Monday – Friday, at 10:45-Noon; June 29, July 13, August 10

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45-noon using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: This is a great way for students interested in 3D modeling and design to get a feel for what working in a 3D environment is like! TinkerCAD is a free, introductory educational software created by engineering software company Autodesk. TinkerCAD runs in your browser so it requires no software download and allows you to create an account and save your projects. Students will learn how to create, dimension, combine, and customize pre-generated and custom drawn geometric shapes to create basic models, parts, and inventions. TinkerCAD has many other fun uses like electronics and “brick building.” TinkerCAD is also the perfect start for moving up to Autodesk Fusion 360, which is our choice for teaching higher levels of 3D modeling, product design, mechanical design and making prototypes. Each student can choose one suitable model to be printed by Robotics And Beyond and picked up in New Milford or mailed to the home.

Links – https://www.tinkercad.com/learn, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinkercad

Requirements:

• Computer access (Windows, Mac, or Chromebook all work!)
• Access to Google Chrome (other browsers may work but Chrome is what we base our classes on, so certain aspects may differ on Safari, Firefox, Edge, etc.)
• An Autodesk TinkerCAD account (a tutorial for making the account will be sent to parents before classes begin)

Ages: 10-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 2:15 pm; June 29, July 13, 27.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1 – 2:15pm using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: In CAD 2, students will learn to create basic parts, and learn how their designs are implemented through 3D printing. Students will learn to work with sketches, geometries, and 3d shapes. Fusion 360 is Autodesk’s flagship mechanical design software, with integrated design, machining, rendering, and blueprinting software all in one, cloud enabled package. Fusion 360 offers a free 3-year license to students and is our best recommendation for exploring and growing skills in 3D modeling. Each student can choose one suitable model to be printed by Robotics And Beyond and picked up in New Milford or mailed to the home.

Link – https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview

Requirements:

• Experience with Robotics And Beyond CAD 1 class using TinkerCAD. Experience with any 3D modeling software such as Sketchup or Blender is also adequate experience but TinkerCAD will allow the easiest transition to Fusion 360.
• An Autodesk Fusion 360 account: (We will send you a tutorial on how to get an account with autodesk)
• A suitable computer: Either a PC or MAC with at least 4GB RAM or preferably 8GB. A dedicated graphics card is not necessary. If your computer runs any application or game with graphics like Minecraft, Blender or Sketchup then it should work well with Fusion 360. Computers purchased after 2014 will generally be fine.
• An installation of Fusion 360: We will send a tutorial on installing Fusion 360, which is free for students and hobbyists alike. You will get a free three year license allowing your student to continue using Fusion beyond our classroom.
• Internet Access: Fusion 360 does not rely on a browser but it needs online access to Autodesk’s cloud resources.

Ages: 10-16 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 10:45 am-Noon; July 27, August 3.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45 am-Noon using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: In CAD 3, students will take their basic modeling skills to the next level, learning how to make more complex geometries, assemblies based on multiple parts, renderings of their parts, and drawings of their final designs. Students will be encouraged to work on a project throughout the week, using each day’s lessons to enhance their work, leading to a final “product” by the last day, with schematics, renderings, and designs. Fusion 360 is Autodesk’s flagship mechanical design software, with integrated design, machining, rendering, and blueprinting software all in one, cloud enabled package. Fusion 360 offers a free 3-year license to students and is our best recommendation for exploring and growing skills in 3D modeling. Each student can choose one suitable model to be printed by Robotics And Beyond and picked up in New Milford or mailed to the home.

Link – https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview

Requirements:

• Experience with Robotics And Beyond CAD 2 class using Fusion 360. Significant experience with any 3D modeling software such as Solidworks, Sketchup or Blender is also adequate experience but will involve more of a learning curve.
• An Autodesk Fusion 360 account: (We will send you a tutorial on how to get an account with autodesk)
• A suitable computer: Either a PC or MAC with at least 4GB RAM or preferably 8GB. A dedicated graphics card is not necessary. If your computer runs any application or game with graphics like Minecraft, Blender or Sketchup then it should work well with Fusion 360. Computers purchased after 2014 will generally be fine.
• An installation of Fusion 360: We will send a tutorial on installing Fusion 360, which is free for students and hobbyists alike. You will get a free three year license allowing your student to continue using Fusion beyond our classroom.
• Internet Access: Fusion 360 does not rely on a browser but it needs online access to Autodesk’s cloud resources.

Ages: 13-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00-3:30 pm; August 3. See cost details below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00-3:30 pm using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Robotics and Beyond’s Academy level CAD class expands upon what students learn in CAD 1, 2, and 3. In this Fusion 360 class, students will work on an advanced project to solve a real world problem relevant to their own lives. Using complex sketch geometries, advanced assemblies, and cloud enabled simulations, students will learn to create a digital project from start to finish. Each class will include both technical instruction and free work time, where students will be able to work with their instructor, one-on-one, solving problems and learning design skills while applying them to a real world use. Fusion 360 is Autodesk’s flagship mechanical design software, with integrated design, machining, rendering, and blueprinting software all in one, cloud enabled package. Fusion 360 offers a free 3-year license to students and is our best recommendation for exploring and growing skills in 3D modeling.

Link – https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview

Requirements:

• Experience with Autodesk Fusion 360 is required and should be up to the levels taught in our CAD 3 topic.
• An Autodesk Fusion 360 account: (We will send you a tutorial on how to get an account with autodesk)
• A suitable computer: Either a PC or MAC with at least 4GB RAM or preferably 8GB. A dedicated graphics card is not necessary. If your computer runs any application or game with graphics like Minecraft, Blender or Sketchup then it should work well with Fusion 360. Computers purchased after 2014 will generally be fine.
• An installation of Fusion 360: We will send a tutorial on installing Fusion 360, which is free for students and hobbyists alike. You will get a free three year license allowing your student to continue using Fusion beyond our classroom.
• Internet Access: Fusion 360 does not rely on a browser but it needs online access to Autodesk’s cloud resources.

Cost: $150

Ages 10-16. June 22 – August 3. These are individual, one-on-one projects. Start and finish times depend on student availability and time needed for parts delivery. See cost details below.

Instruction details: Each camper will schedule a ONE HOUR time slot with the instructor between 9 am and 4 pm. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Using Zoom and email, meet your computer build instructor to talk about the performance you want your computer to have and your budget; create a list of specifications; identify the compatible parts, sources and prices. Parts are ordered by the student and may be shipped to their home or to Robotics And Beyond. The instructor and student will meet in person at the Robotics And Beyond studio at Makery Coworking in New Milford to assemble and get your computer running and fully tested. Be aware that even new components sometimes need to be returned and can delay the completion of the project. Return of components is the responsibility of the student. Note: Instructor and student are required to wear masks when meeting in person. Read Makery Coworking’s safety protocols.

Description: Gamers, graphic and 3D art designers, 3D modelers and coders: Learn from experts how to design and build a desktop computer that meets your needs and budget and can be upgraded as your needs change. See “Cost” below for “extended service” help.

In this topic you will learn:

• how all of the parts work together, from the case to the motherboard, processor, memory, display and everything in between.
• how to make sure all parts you choose are compatible.
• where to order the parts with highest quality and best prices
• how to build the computer and get it running while learning about operating system installation, BIOS, drivers and everything else so you know your computer inside and out.
• how to optimize performance and identify and solve problems.

Cost: $120 for design, assembly assistance and startup.  Estimated $600 minimum for a very capable, upgradeable computer including a monitor, keyboard and mouse and Windows operating system. The cost can increase to $1000 to $2000 depending on capabilities desired or decrease depending on parts you may have at home. Once the computer is working properly, follow-on guidance is available on a per-hour basis at $20/hr.

Ages: 8-13; Monday – Friday, at 9-10:30 am; June 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, August 3. See details about cost and STEM kit below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, from 9:00 am-10:30 am using Zoom. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends.

Description: Using basic LEGO parts, LEGO technics, and a wide range of other building materials, students will design solutions to a variety of challenges. Working collaboratively via online video chats, students will be encouraged to let their curiosity lead them to innovative designs for each challenge. Designs will be as simple or complex as their imagination and materials will enable.

Requirements:

• Only an interest in coming up with creative solutions to problems and thinking like an engineer or scientist!
• Computer requirements: The ability to access Zoom and Robotics and Beyond’s YouTube page.  Access to an email is optional, but might be helpful for communicating with the instructor.

Additional information: Some materials will be needed from a camper’s house. These include: a book (at least 7in. x 7in., will not be destroyed), a sink that can have a stopper put in it or a bucket with water, and coins or pebbles or small stones to use as weights.

Cost: $115 including the kit of materials, which may be picked up at Robotics And Beyond, Makery Coworking, 20 Bank St, New Milford CT 06776, 9am-6pm on the Friday before your week of camp, or by appointment. Kits may also be shipped for an additional $15 charge.

Ages: 9-16; Monday – Friday, at 9:00-10:15 am; July 6, 13, August 3.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 9:00-10:15am using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Explore true artistic graphic design, in 2-dimensions, with the free, open-source software FireAlpaca, and learn to create animations of your work. Students will create their own account and can continue using the software year-round. Student projects will be shared among all students in this topic and stored as a video on our YouTube channel. FireAlpaca is an open-source graphic art alternative to Photoshop and has the added benefit of animation. This  is a great way to start learning about graphic art software and animation concepts and skills in general like layering, textures, color palettes and much more. This topic provides a great basis for learning about more capable animation software in our other camp topics like Krita and Pro-Create. See the FireAlpaca website for more information.

Requirements:

• The only requirement is an interest in graphic art and creating your own, original art and animations.
• Keyboard (typing) ability is needed only for saving and opening design files.
• Installation of Fire Alpaca on the student’s home computer is required. The software is safe to download and use. Instructions will be provided for downloading and installing the software if needed.

Ages: 12-16; Monday – Friday, at 10:45 am-Noon; July 6, 20, 27.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45 am-Noon using either Zoom and Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Students will gain higher skill levels and learn more advanced concepts in graphic design and animation using the free, open-source software Krita. See the Krita website for more information. Krita is a step above FireAlpaca and more professional in capabilities. This topic provides a great basis for students interested in game design or video or movie animation and gaining deeper skills with Krita or more professional-grade software like Procreate. Students will create their own account for projects and can continue using the software at home. Student projects are shared among the other students in the class and stored as a video on our YouTube channel.

Requirements:

• An interest in graphic art and creating your own, original art and animations.
• Some experience with graphic design and animation such as Fire Alpaca, Krita or any other animation software.
• Installation of Krita on the student’s home computer is required. The software is safe to download and use. Instructions will be provided for downloading and installing the software if needed.

Ages: 13-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 9:00-11:30 am; July 27, August 3. See cost details below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 9:00-11:30am using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: Students will gain higher skill levels and learn more advanced concepts in graphic design and animation using the iPad app, “ProCreate.” ProCreate in the App Store is $9.99, and should be used on an iPad with the Apple Pencil/Stylus. (see below for iPad compatibility with Apple pencils):

• 6th and 7th generation iPad is compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil
• 3rd generation iPad Air is compatible with the 1st generation Apple Pencil
• 1st and 2nd generation iPad Pro ONLY supports 1st generation Apple Pencil
• 3rd and 4th generation iPad Pro ONLY supports 2nd generation Apple Pencil
• Stylus for iPads may also be used in place of Apple Pencil

See more information about ProCreate at https://procreate.art.

This topic provides a great career or college-level basis for students interested in illustration, graphic design, concept art or 2D animation and gaining deeper skills with ProCreate. Students will download ProCreate to work on their individual projects and can continue using the app at home. Student projects are shared among the other students in the class and stored as a video on our YouTube channel.

Requirements:

• An interest in graphic art and creating your own, original art and animations.
• Some experience with graphic design and animation such as Photoshop, Fire Alpaca, Krita or any other 2D design software.
• Installation of ProCreate on the student’s iPad is required. The app is safe to download and use. Instructions will be provided for downloading and installing the app if needed.

Cost: $150

Ages: 12-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 10:45-Noon; July 13, 27.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 10:45am-Noon using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description:

• Learn the basics of circuit design and how to use the design software Autodesk Eagle to design and simulate testing of the circuit. Software is free for students (see below).
• Start with a simple circuit and the simple electrical equations and math involved to make sure that the circuit will operate correctly and safely.
• Learn how to have a professionally fabricated version of your circuit boards made for you to solder and test at home.
• Learn how you can also create and test your circuit without soldering by using a breadboard.

Links:

• https://www.autodesk.com/education/free-software/eagle
• https://www.autodesk.com/products/eagle/free-download?plc=F360&term=1-YEAR&support=ADVANCED&quantity=1

Requirements:

• Some experience with electronic circuits and soldering, and a personal interest in learning how to design and test circuit designs on a computer.
• An Autodesk Fusion 360 account, installation of Fusion 360 and software for Eagle on a computer in your home. We will send a tutorial on installing Fusion 360, which is free for students and hobbyists. You will get a free one year, renewable license allowing your student to continue using Fusion, Eagle and other Autodesk programs beyond our summer programs.
• A suitable computer: Either a PC or MAC with at least 4GB RAM or preferably 8GB. A dedicated graphics card is not necessary. Computers purchased after 2014 will generally work with Fusion 360 and Eagle.
• Internet Access: Fusion 360 does not rely on a browser but it needs online access to Autodesk’s cloud resources.

Ages: 13-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 9:00-11:30 am; August 3. See cost details below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 9:00-11:30 am using either Zoom, Google Classroom with video by Google Meet, or Discord. Delayed, off-line help by email or chat will be available 9am to 8pm M-F and weekends. Help will be provided prior to the start of this class for loading the correct software.

Description: This class will be a great asset for anyone thinking of pursuing electronics or electrical engineering in college, trade school and a career. The topic is appropriate for students with some prior experience in electronics and strong interest in the subject. Some experience with any software for circuit design is helpful but not necessary (Fritzing, NI-Multisim, Circuit Maker or Eagle). Students will take existing knowledge of circuit fundamentals and learn important, deeper skills in circuit design and use of the Autodesk software Eagle. Students will learn these skills as they create an original circuit board for an electronic game of their choosing. During this project, students will also learn the function of the many electronic components that they will include in their design and learn how circuit boards are actually fabricated. Students will create a parts list with pricing for all components needed for their board and learn where they can have the board fabricated. Students may choose to order the board and parts and complete the soldering of components to the board at home or at Robotics And Beyond’s studio once social distancing permits.

Links:

• https://www.autodesk.com/education/free-software/eagle
• https://www.autodesk.com/products/eagle/free-download?plc=F360&term=1-YEAR&support=ADVANCED&quantity=1

Requirements:

• Some experience with electronic circuits and soldering, and a personal interest in learning how to design and test circuit designs on a computer.
• An Autodesk Fusion 360 account, installation of Fusion 360 and software for Eagle on a computer in your home. We will send a tutorial on installing Fusion 360, which is free for students and hobbyists. You will get a free one year, renewable license allowing your student to continue using Fusion, Eagle and other Autodesk programs beyond our summer programs.
• A suitable computer: Either a PC or MAC with at least 4GB RAM or preferably 8GB. A dedicated graphics card is not necessary. Computers purchased after 2014 will generally work with Fusion 360 and Eagle.
• Internet Access: Fusion 360 does not rely on a browser but it needs online access to Autodesk’s cloud resources.

Cost: $150

Ages: 14-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 7:00-9:00 pm; July 20, August 3. See cost details below.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 7:00-9:00pm using Discord. The first meeting will introduce Unity, what it can do, how games are developed, coded and saved in the software, the type of game the class will create, and ensure that all students have the software properly loaded. The team will form working groups and begin creating the game. The team will use a Discord server to manage the project and communicate among all members during each week of the class. Help will be provided to students prior to the start of this class for accessing the Discord server. The team of instructors (not students) may be meeting together in-person during the class times. If so, they will meet at Robotics And Beyond’s studio at Makery Coworking, 20 Bank St. in New Milford. This space allows separation of team members by 6 or more feet.

Description: This topic provides a good introduction to Unity and its use for game development and the application of C# to a specific project. This class will not teach coding fundamentals (see “Requirements” below). Students will download the Unity development software to work on the project.

The benefit of Unity: Unity is a development platform for creating graphics and animation in 2D, 3D, Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). It has very wide use in industry for creating video games, films and animation for many applications. Because working in Unity involves the use of code libraries written in the language C#, it also provides a great learning path to higher levels of coding in general. Unity has a huge user base and is well supported with tutorials and forums that provide great sources of information and help.

See more information about Unity at https://unity.com/.

Requirements:

• A personal interest in game design and learning about an industrial-strength game development platform.
• The class is focused on learning to use the software platform Unity and applying C# to the subject of game development. The class does not have time to teach coding fundamentals. Therefore a high comfort level with at least one programming language is necessary to be allowed to join the class. C# is ideal, Java and any other C-based language are the next most relevant languages.  Strong ability in Python or Java Script is also acceptable.
• Installation of the free Unity development software is required.

Cost: $150

Ages: 14-18 or by permission; Monday – Friday, at 1:00 – 2:30 pm; July 13, 20, 27, August 3, 10. See cost below. Depending on interest, we may offer a second class in the evenings, 7-9pm.

Instruction details: Live interaction with the instructor will occur each day, Monday – Friday, at 1:00 to 2:30pm. The team will use a Discord server to manage the project and communicate among all members during each meeting. Help will be provided to students prior to the start of this class for accessing the Discord server. The OASIS Minecraft server at the Robotics And Beyond studio and the Discord server will both be open between formal meetings (limited hours 9am-11pm) for members to continue working on and communicating about the project. The team of instructors (not students) may be meeting together in-person during the class times. If so, they will meet at Robotics And Beyond’s studio at Makery Coworking, 20 Bank St. in New Milford. This space allows separation of team members by 6 or more feet.

Description: The concept for Robotics And Beyond’s Minecraft OASIS originated from the virtual reality world OASIS that was the backdrop in the book and movie Ready Player One, by Ernest Cline.

This is a long-term project and is offered multiple weeks over the summer. Team members can choose from four roles (if you register for more than one week, you can choose a different role each week):
1. History, government and rules
2. Server hardware and software
3. Design and building of worlds and properties
4. Strategy for quests and games and prizes

The plan is to create the framework, or beginning, of a universe consisting of 27 square “sectors” arranged like a Rubik’s Cube. Each sector will eventually contain some number of planets. The 2020 camp project will design a plan for just one sector which will contain a number of planets, (worlds). The idea is to create a large-scale game with the following features.

• Non-combat and PVP (player vs. player) worlds or regions
• Private properties to be bought by players and developed as they desire
• Quests and other games where players can earn credits and artifacts or special abilities
• Teleportation between places on a world and between worlds
• Frequent references to names, places, games, music and movies that were part of the book Ready Player One
• A set of governing rules

The first meeting will introduce the concept of the OASIS, how it is hosted, discuss the overall design, form working groups, and begin the design process. The remaining meetings will focus on progress and strategy within the working groups, and discussion and collaboration between all groups about progress and plans.

Requirements:

• A deep interest in Minecraft world building or the design of strategic quests and game plots and stories within the worlds.
• Ability to work as part of a team, collaborate respectfully, proper online conduct, and follow through on responsibilities for your effort on the project.

Cost: $150