Dean Kamen (Deka Research Founder) – Governor’s Summit on Innovative Education (Jul 2020)


Chapters

00:00:03 FIRST Robotics: Shaping the Future through STEAM Education and Hands-on Learning
00:04:46 Building a Passion for Science and Technology in Kids
00:10:15 Extracurricular STEM Education as a Catalyst for Innovation
00:13:39 Challenging Traditional Education: Unlocking Creativity and Innovation
00:19:03 Future Medical Innovations through Advanced Engineering
00:22:57 Dean Kamen: From Dialysis to Water Purification and More
00:28:19 FIRST Robotics for All Ages
00:31:30 FIRST's Transition to Virtual Events and Its Educational Impact
00:38:08 Impact of FIRST on Kids and Communities
00:46:08 FIRST Robotics Global Initiative: Uniting Nations Through STEM and Innovation

Abstract

Dean Kamen’s FIRST Program: Revolutionizing STEM Education and Bridging Cultural Gaps

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Dean Kamen, renowned for his inventive prowess, has significantly impacted STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education through his non-profit organization, FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology). Addressing the global shortage of STEM professionals, Kamen’s program transcends robotics, teaching valuable skills like teamwork and problem-solving. The program’s inclusive approach breaks cultural barriers and elevates STEM to a status akin to sports, providing opportunities for all, particularly women and minorities. FIRST’s transformative effect extends to communities, fostering creativity, unity, and a sense of purpose, and demonstrating long-term positive impacts in education and professional fields. FIRST’s approach to learning through robotics has gained prominence, particularly in the United States, where it engages students by using robots to build kids, not just building robots, and has become a model for hands-on, creativity-driven learning. FIRST Robotics has attracted companies and CEOs to engage as enthusiastic scientist and engineer mentors, inspiring kids and demonstrating the excitement and fun in STEM.

The Genesis of FIRST: A Visionary’s Solution to a Cultural Challenge

Dean Kamen, grappling with dyslexia and the conventional education system’s limitations, recognized the cultural overshadowing of STEM by media and sports. He struggled with school due to dyslexia, causing him to learn slowly and have trouble understanding concepts quickly. Kamen criticizes traditional education for providing tools (knowledge) without teaching how to apply them practically. His interest in building things led him to develop devices in his parents’ basement to help his brother, a pediatric oncologist, deliver precise drug treatments to babies with cancer. His solution was to turn STEM into a sport-like phenomenon. This idea gave birth to FIRST, a program that, for three decades, has married the excitement of sports with the rigor of science and technology. The success of FIRST is evident in its statistics: over 80,000 schools, 200,000 mentors, and $80 million in scholarships, greatly impacting students’ lives and career trajectories. Kamen’s personal struggles with dyslexia and traditional schooling methods fueled his passion for practical application and innovative problem-solving, principles he embedded into FIRST.

Expanding Horizons: From Robotics to Global Challenges

Beyond robotics, Kamen’s pursuits include significant contributions in healthcare and global challenges. His developments in insulin pumps, dialysis systems, and advanced regenerative manufacturing underscore his commitment to practical solutions for critical problems. During the COVID-19 pandemic, FIRST adapted by shifting to online platforms, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to continuous learning. His innovative insulin pump became the foundation of the insulin pump industry. His company eventually expanded into creating dialysis systems, home dialysis systems, stents, artificial organs, and other medical devices. Kamen encourages unconventional thinking and looking for answers beyond the standard options, even if it means challenging established norms. He emphasizes the importance of excitement and novelty in learning and innovation, comparing it to the thrill of playing a sport without knowing the outcome. FIRST, in Kamen’s vision, is more than a competition; it’s a platform for nurturing future leaders capable of addressing global issues like organ donor shortages and clean water accessibility.

The Cultural and Educational Impact of FIRST

FIRST is not just an educational program; it’s a cultural movement. Its impact on students and communities is profound, cultivating skills crucial for the 21st century. This program has redefined the educational landscape, making STEM fun and aspirational. The introduction of various programs like FIRST LEGO League and FIRST Tech Challenge caters to different age groups, ensuring a seamless introduction to STEM from an early age. FIRST not only ignites passion for technology in students but also offers them career opportunities, instills confidence in parents, and fosters enthusiasm for learning among teachers. FIRST is expanding its reach to include more students from underserved communities and is working to develop new programs and resources to support STEM education. Industry professionals participating in FIRST witness the emergence of their future employees and customers, creating a sense of excitement and inspiration. Kamen notes that DEKA, his company, increasingly recruits engineers who are alumni of FIRST teams, demonstrating the organization’s success in nurturing talent. The grassroots movement of FIRST, driven by teachers, parents, and industry professionals, highlights its widespread acceptance and the collaborative spirit it fosters.

Kamen’s Global Vision and the Power of Cooperation

Kamen’s vision extends beyond national borders with FIRST Global. This international robotics competition brings together teams from over 190 countries, promoting cooperation and understanding among diverse cultures. The story of Team Hope from a Syrian refugee camp, participating in the finals against an Israeli team, exemplifies the unifying power of FIRST Global. Such moments transcend competition, showcasing the potential of STEM as a unifying force in a fragmented world. FIRST Global held an international robotics competition in Dubai, with 191 countries participating. Among the teams was Team Hope, consisting of seven kids from a refugee camp in Syria who had no country but shared a common aspiration. By the third day of the competition, Team Hope reached the finals, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination. In the final match, Team Hope faced a team from Israel, creating a tense atmosphere due to the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. Despite the political tensions, the kids from both teams spontaneously embraced each other after the match, setting an example of unity and cooperation. FIRST is not solely about robots; it emphasizes the development of values necessary to address global challenges. FIRST teaches kids to prioritize collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, irrespective of differences in language, culture, or religion. FIRST equips the next generation with the skills and mindset to address pressing issues like climate change, water access, cybersecurity, and healthcare.

FIRST as a Transformative Force in Education and Culture

Dean Kamen’s FIRST program has revolutionized STEM education, making it accessible and engaging to a broad spectrum of students. Its impact is not limited to individual skill development but extends to creating sustainable ecosystems in communities and fostering global understanding. Kamen’s contributions, including life-saving inventions like the dialysis machine and work on developing human organs, demonstrate his dedication to improving human health. His establishment of ARMI (Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute) emphasizes the need to address the organ shortage and bring industrial-scale manufacturing to regenerative medicine. Kamen’s emphasis on practical application and embracing change and technology highlights the importance of preparing future generations for careers in engineering and mathematics.


Notes by: Flaneur