Intangible Problem by David Lee

FIRST

INTANGIBLE PROBLEM:
The specific problem addressed by FIRST is a lack of interest in science and innovation in children today. However, Dean Kamen believes that the solution for this problem holds the potential to solve many of the world larger issues.



SOLUTION:
Dean Kamen in a speech prepared for the First Competition
"We need you to be able to tackle energy challenges, advance our abilities in medicine, and develop entire new industries. Innovation is absolutely an essential part of the solution. Even before the current financial crisis, we were in a deep competitive hole. Too many people were making money from money, or money from flipping houses and hamburgers. Too few were using hard-earned science and engineering skills to devise real solutions. We need more of you to make your investment in learning and thinking — to be innovators. But we have to hurry. World leaders may be able to bail out the banks by printing money, but you can't bail out a generation by printing diplomas. It takes hard work, but it's worth it."

FIRST seeks to stimulate interest in science and technology in today's youth through competitive robotics competitions. Another goal is to change a culture that has higher regard for the talents of star athletes than the abilities of scientists who are making breakthroughs in science and medicine.

By inspiring future generations to seek careers in science, the goal is to encourage the future innovators who will find the cure for cancer, develop cold fusion, and create the technical solutions that will make the world a better place.



























Metrics
According to a 2005 Brandeis University study comparing non-FIRST students and FIRST participants, FIRST students are significantly more likely to go to college, get graduate degrees, and volunteer in their communities. Additionally, they are twice as likely to pursue careers in science and technology, and four times as likely in engineering. (from PopSCI)

Learn more about First founder Dean Kamen


Organizations with different solutions to this Intangible Problem

Austin Children's Museum
Engineering Sunday - explore engineering first hand through playful activities presented in collaboration with students from The University of Texas's Cockrell School of Engineering. Sponsored by the Monsanto Fund (Focus Areas: Nutritional Improvement through Agriculture, Healthy Environment, Science Education and Our Communities)














Maker Faire
An event created by Make Magazine featuring DIY projects resembling a carnival with science and technological wonders replacing human oddities with mechanical ones. Inspires interest in technology through exibition of homemade mechanical marvels.