Software Foundations (through VRC)

Software Foundations (through VRC)

VRC: Applying for your Software Foundations Micro-Certification
As a member of a VEX Robotics Competition (VRC) team, you have built up a number of valuable technical skills. Micro-Certifications, brought to you by RECF and the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy, let you showcase these skills as part of a college application or resume, or simply let others know what you have accomplished through VRC.

The Software Foundations Micro-Certification covers all of the concepts that were covered in Robotics Integrations as well as programming sensors, and a vision system (or camera).

The exam portion of this Micro-Certification will test your knowledge of these concepts to determine if you meet or exceed the foundational knowledge needed as a Robotics Technician.

To apply for yours:
  • (Optional) Review the lesson materials to brush up and see what is covered by the exam 
  • [REQUIRED] Upload photos of your work to your portfolio according to the prompts 
  • [REQUIRED] Obtain approval of your uploads by CMRA or a Certified Teacher**
  • [REQUIRED] Take the online exam (60 min, multiple choice, passing = 70%)**
  • **Requires purchasing Student Certification Access and have CMRA or a CMRA Certified instructor approve uploads
Process for applying for the Micro-Certification

Exam Prep: Testbed (through VRC)

In this section, we will review taking inventory of parts that are available in a kit. When technicians receive a kit, they must keep track of parts using a checklist, and perform a series of tests with the system to ensure proper functionality. 

Exam Prep: Open-Loop Navigation (through VRC)

In this section, we will review scenarios where you receive a robot kit that comes in separate subsystems: Mobility, Power, and Control. We will review testing the system using basic movement and open-loop navigation.

Exam Prep: Sensing (through VRC)

This unit covers using sensors with your robot to help sense its environment. Some basic sensors could be tactile sensors (e.g. bumpers, touch, whiskers), and light or color-based sensors (e.g. phototransistors). 

Exam Prep: Camera Navigation (through VRC)

In this section, we take a look at utilizing vision systems (or cameras) to help with navigating a robot. 

Exam Prep: Camera Programming (through VRC)

This section covers a more in-depth look into programming with the camera. You may have used a camera before to help with navigation, but doing more complex tasks with the camera involves some more advanced programming. 
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