The Institute for Innovative Learning (IL), Mahidol University, organized the “Young Innovators Camp: Igniting Young Minds – Robot War: Design, Build, Improve and Battle” under the One Mahidol One Tambon Project – Children’s University @ Salaya (Salaya Children’s University) on September 4, 2026, at Chailerd Pichitpornchai Conference Room, 1st Floor, Institute for Innovative Learning, Mahidol University, Salaya, Nakhon Pathom.
The activity was officially opened by Asst. Prof. Dr. Piyachat Jittatham, Director of the Institute for Innovative Learning, Mahidol University, who welcomed Prof. Dr. Sompop Prathumraksarak, Vice President for Strategic Planning, Quality Development and Social Engagement, Mahidol University, together with teachers and students from Phra Tamnak Suankularb Mahamongkol School, comprising three teachers and 44 students. The activity aimed to provide children and young people with opportunities to learn through hands-on experiences, creative problem-solving, and innovation development.
The Robot War activity was designed around the learning process of “Design, Build, Improve and Battle.” Participants first became familiar with the equipment, mission objectives, rules, and basic principles of robot operation. They then worked in teams to design and build their own robots, including designing the robot structure, cutting and assembling the body, installing motors and wheels, and developing other components in preparation for the competition.
A key feature of the activity was learning through experimentation, competition, analysis, and continuous improvement. Participants competed in multiple rounds and used the results of each round to identify strengths and weaknesses and refine their robot designs. Improvements included adjustments to the robot structure, wheel positioning, strength, and balance before entering the final round. This process provided students with an engaging and meaningful opportunity to experience the Engineering Design Process in an authentic learning environment.
The activity was facilitated by Dr. Phongphatai Kitirungrojnaporn and the IL instructor team, who provided guidance and support throughout the learning process. The activity emphasized teamwork, communication, problem-solving, systematic thinking, and creativity, encouraging students to collaborate and develop their own solutions through hands-on practice.
Beyond the excitement of building and battling robots, the activity was designed to develop essential 21st-century skills. Students were encouraged to experiment, test their ideas, make adjustments, and learn from mistakes. These experiences provide an important foundation for developing innovative thinking, resilience, creativity, and the confidence to become future creators and innovators of technology.
The organization of the Young Innovators Camp under the One Mahidol One Tambon Project – Children’s University @ Salaya reflects the Institute for Innovative Learning’s role in translating its expertise in STEM Education, Learning Innovation, Robotics, and Experiential Learning into meaningful learning experiences for children and young people. The activity provides a learning environment in which students can connect knowledge with real-world problem-solving and the creation of tangible solutions.
The Contribution of the Institute for Innovative Learning extends beyond organizing STEM and robotics activities. IL contributes to the development of a learning ecosystem that empowers young learners through hands-on experiences, collaboration, experimentation, and reflection. By connecting Mahidol University’s knowledge and expertise with children and young people in the Salaya community, IL helps bring innovative learning opportunities into the community in a tangible and accessible way.
The Impact of the activity goes beyond the creation of a single robot. Students experienced a process of thinking and working that can be transferred to real-life challenges—from identifying problems and designing solutions to building prototypes, testing ideas, evaluating results, and continuously improving their work. These are essential capabilities for developing Young Innovators who can create value for themselves, their schools, communities, and society in the future.
This initiative represents another important mechanism through which the Institute for Innovative Learning, Mahidol University, “translates knowledge into meaningful change.” By creating inspiring learning experiences that nurture creativity and innovation from an early age, IL contributes to laying the foundation for Salaya as a learning community that continuously supports the development of future generations and sustainable human potential.
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