As educators, we have to ask ourselves "what is the goal of bringing robotics into the classroom?" If we answer that the goal is to educate our children in science and technology, then I think we need to seriously evaluate the benefit of having only one or two robots available to a group of students. Typically in a team environment, individuals try to fit themselves into a position that they feel they are best at. Frequently, a coach or leader assigns positions simply on his or her personal assessment of an individual's talents. In a time intensive event like First Lego League or FIRST, that simply does not leave much of an opportunity for students to try on "different hats" in the various aspects of the robot building and programming. With this system, every student gets to try on "every hat." Competition is not the goal of the program, the goal is education. Robodyssey suggest several different events each with a different level of complexity and opportunity for expression. Generally, students are not encouraged to compete against their peers but rather against themselves. Class and event competitions are really just an opportunity to showcase their work. Since every student builds and programs, events become chances to collaborate and observe. Robodyssey encourages exchanges of code or learned mechanics at every event.

One must also consider the content of a platform or competition before choosing what system might be right for your school. Robodyssey robots based on the popular PIC (peripheral Interface Controller) are built completely from scratch by students. Every single component must be identified, placed and understood to make his or her robot function to it's fullest. Even the gear boxes must be assembled and optimized for gear ratios. This method introduces students to the world of electronics and helps build practical skills in engineering. Once the robot electronics and placed and tested, the system must now be programmed in either Basic, C or Assembly.

Teachers and students receive one half day training seminar at their school at the beginning of the program to insure a smooth start-up.

Teachers have direct access to the program author via email and Website updates to answer any questions about the project.