First, the students can see a physical robot execute the logic in their programs. It is easier to understand the logic in a program when you can watch it execute instead of wondering why you didn't get any output. Second the Army is relying more and more on sophisticated simulations. Using a simulation before using the actual robot gives cadets their first exposure to simulation and the advantages and drawbacks of this key technology. Finally, robotics are a mission critical technology in today's Army.
Cadets leave the course with a basic understanding of the concepts that underlie robots.
A successful run through the obstacle course .