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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

Registration for the 2019-2020 club is closed

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.

Key dates

  • First teacher PD: Saturday, October 5th, 2019
  • Second teacher PD: Saturday, January 11th, 2020
  • Club Celebration: Saturday, March 28th, 2020
  • MATE Regional Competition: Saturday, April 25th, 2020
  • ROV Field Trip Day: Saturday, June 6th, 2020

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

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].

Accessibility

If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, impairment, or other need related to your experience please let us know via phone or email: 312-692-3333 or [email protected]