Saturday 24 January was all about technology, creativity and teamwork at the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) regional final. Young people from the region presented LEGO robots they had built and programmed themselves, demonstrating how much technological knowledge and problem-solving ability they already have at a young age. Among all this innovation was GameLab, making a playful but substantive contribution: an arcade cabinet visitors could try for themselves.
Discovering technology through play
The arcade cabinet attracted plenty of attention throughout the day. Between robot competitions, participants, parents and supervisors took to the controls to play a game developed by students. GameLab’s contribution fitted the event’s central theme perfectly: learning by doing. Games are, after all, an accessible way to spark interest in technology, programming and interactive design.
For many young visitors, this was their first introduction to the idea that games are made as well as played. That insight is exactly what GameLab aims to share: showing how creativity and technology come together in interactive applications. Milano Hoogvliets represented GameLab and was on hand to explain.
Practical education from an early age
The FIRST LEGO League regional final once again demonstrated that practical education begins long before higher education. Children and young people worked in teams on technical challenges, supported by judges, referees, students and industry professionals. The open, positive atmosphere, with teams helping and encouraging one another, made the event special.
Alongside the competitions was an extensive programme of interactive activities. Visitors could play student games in the arcade, experiment with technology, build LEGO infrastructure and take part in creative design challenges. GameLab’s contribution fitted perfectly: a concrete, tangible experience showing what is possible with games and interaction technology.
Inspiration for the future
By bringing a playable arcade cabinet, GameLab demonstrated how games can serve as educational tools and a stepping stone towards technical education. Moments like these can make the difference, providing the spark that inspires young visitors to explore technology, design or game development themselves in the future.
The FIRST LEGO League regional final once again proved the value of introducing young people to innovation early. GameLab is happy to contribute through play, with a visible presence and a practical approach.