SEDGEFIELD and KNYSNA NEWS - More and more learners are taking an interest in the revolutionary world of robotics and coding.
Twin sisters from Sedgefield, Astrid and Alice Pearson (15), their younger sibling, Arya Pearson (11), and scout teammate Ayla Cornick (12) recently secured fourth place overall in the Inkcubeko Robotics Environmental Health Competition in Pacaltsdorp, George.
The Pearson siblings' interest in robotics began four years ago during an outreach visit to Inkcubeko in George. This opportunity introduced these homeschoolers to science and coding through practical activities. Their mother and coach, Sian Pearson, said finding affordable extracurricular activities while homeschooling her four children was not always easy.
Their team, Quadruple A, has been active for two years and has competed in four competitions. "Inkcubeko has been absolutely amazing, giving my children these opportunities. Through science demonstrations, physics and science outings for homeschoolers, they have been exposed to science and coding," she said.
According to Milaan Strachan, academic manager at Inkcubeko Youth and Science Centre, Quadruple A participated in the programme for the second year. Last year, the team advanced to the national level and received first place for core values at the First LEGO League (FLL) Challenge's national championships.
Growing opportunities across the Garden Route
Two teams from the Knysna area participated in this year's competition. While Quadruple A placed fourth overall, Fraaisig Primary School's Environment Protectors finished 17th in their first year, achieving their highest score in the innovation project category.
Based in Thembalethu, George, Inkcubeko aims to serve the greater Garden Route. Strachan said the dedication of the learners from Knysna and Fraaisig encouraged the centre to extend opportunities beyond George. Participation in its robotics programmes has grown from about 75 learners last year to 244 this year. Strachan said the programme develops critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, communication, resilience and entrepreneurial skills.
Skills for the future
Pearson said robotics and coding offered valuable life skills, regardless of whether the children pursued careers in technology. "These are fundamental skills that young people need in life. They need to understand how things work and how to analyse a situation and solve problems, especially as they prepare to live in an increasingly technology-driven world," she said.
Strachan said Inkcubeko hoped to reach more schools across the Garden Route, ensuring geographical distance did not prevent learners from accessing opportunities in science, technology, engineering, art, mathematics and innovation.
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