SeaPerch Remotely Operated Vehicle, Construction Manual, Page: 7 / 110

SeaPerch ROV Construction Manual
– Version 2010-04NW
I-1
Introduction
SeaPerch ROV Program Overview
What is SeaPerch?
SeaPerch is an educational tool
– a
fun, hands-on learning activity and a
curriculum that can be enjoyed by a wide range of students, ranging from late
elementary school through high school and even introductory college programs.
The curriculum is designed to meet many of the national learning standards
identified by the United States Government. Often applied at the middle school
(or junior high school) level, SeaPerch is challenging, creative, and gets kids
excited about science and technology. The SeaPerch program is sponsored
through the National Naval Responsibility for Naval Engineering (NNRNE)
Outreach effort, with the goal of helping to inspire the next generation of naval
architects and marine, ocean, and naval engineers.
A SeaPerch is an underwater robot known as
a “remotely operated vehicle,” or
“ROV.” Students learn best by
doing , and during the SeaPerch project, they will
completely assemble an inexpensive, yet functional ROV, test it, and then
operate it underwater. The experience will enable them to explore science and
technology both in the classroom and in a pool, or, for some, in natural marine
environments.
The ROVs are built from kits comprised of low-cost, easily-obtained components.
Students often work in small teams to assemble their vehicles, usually over a
period of several weeks. From the classroom activities during SeaPerch
construction through in-water application of the ROV, they will have
opportunities to learn about various subjects including mathematics, robotics,
biology, oceanography, physics, and history, as well as valuable problem
solving and teamwork skills.
The SeaPerch program is structured to provide free training to help teachers
more effectively lead students through the variety of interdisciplinary activities
involved. Within one project, a number of concepts required for their grade level
can be efficiently addressed, with the further benefit of exposing the students to
additional concepts that may not otherwise be easily covered with their standard
curriculum. Mentors from government and industry are often available to support
and reinforce the lessons as well as to assist with the SeaPerch construction and
application activities in the classroom.