Innovation Discovery Education Academy (IDEA)
Innovation & Discovery Educations Academy (formerly the Robotics Academy of Critical Engagement) is an opportunity for children of all ages to explore and discover robotics, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.
The process of using robotics can build and strengthen critical thinking. I.D.E.A. uses robotics as a tool to foster everyday life skills needed in all areas of the teaching profession and everyday life. Mastery of these skills can help improve any field in the classroom or business.
Mission
Challenge practicing teachers, teacher candidates, public school children and business leaders to recognize, identify, demonstrate, analyze, design and assess critical thinking and problem solving skills using robotics. I.D.E.A. is the only Robotics Academy focusing on the process of critical thinking using robotics in the United States. The academy stands on four components:
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
History
In the fall of 2012, Cherokee Nation and Northeastern State University partnered to establish robotics in the teacher education program of NSU. In the spring of 2013, robotics was implemented into one Technology in Education class. After success with that pilot, The Robotics Academy for Critical Engagement was established in the fall of 2013.
