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Underwater Robotics Program

Dive deep into underwater robotics at Shedd Aquarium! A suite of programs introduces teachers and students to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) principles through the development and application of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to investigate aquatic environments.

Registration

The 2020-2021 club season is temporarily paused. For other resources on underwater robotics, visit Marine Advanced Technology Education.

Contact us with any questions.

Audience

Teachers with students in grades 6-12

Cost

Chicago Public Schools clubs: Free 
Non-CPS clubs: $250

Two teens participating in Shedd's Underwater Robotics event apply heat from a heat gun to a wire attached to their ROV, whose body consists of a pentagonal PVC pipe frame.
An ROV, boxy and built of PVC piping and other parts by Shedd teens bobs just below the surface of a pool during a competition.

What's included?

The Underwater Robotics Club provides educators with the knowledge, materials (an ROV kit worth $1,000) and support to run their own after-school robotics clubs. The program culminates in a fun-filled poolside event where teachers and students can test their ROVs. Afterward, Shedd holds the annual Shedd Midwest Regional Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) ROV Competition, open to middle and high school underwater robotics clubs.

The Underwater Robotics Club is generously funded, in part, by The Motorola Solutions Foundation and by The Best Buy Foundation.

Accessibility

Program includes:

  • Use of stairs; elevators are available
  • Moving and standing for up to 1 hour
  • Work taking place at standard and lab tables with chairs provided
  • Use of power tools, saws, soldering irons, and other tools
  • Moving around the aquarium, which has varying light, noise and temperature levels
  • The learning environment as part of this experience may include the following sensory triggers: unusual noises-which may be loud, low or moderate; changes in lighting; unusual smells; touch sensitivity due the use of tight-fitting gloves; and, participants may get wet or dirty.

We believe there should be no boundaries to your Shedd Aquarium experience. If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, please contact us at [email protected] or 312-939-2438. We look forward to assisting you.

Competition Fees

Visit marinetech.org for Shedd Midwest Regional MATE ROV Competition fees.

Included in Registration

ROV kit, curricula, teacher/club leader training, club support and club event (including bus funding, t-shirts and lunch).

Questions

Email [email protected].