Write the instructions; be in control.
Click here to download a PDF copy of the rules for Programming, Apps & Robotics.
Click here to download a copy of the Programming, Apps & Robotics project checklist.
Click here to download a copy of the judging rubric
Click here to book a judging appointment (bookings open 5 June - 22 July). NB: this page will not be active until 5 June 2026.
A successful SASTA Oliphant Science Awards Programming, Apps & Robotics (including electronic games) entry:
- HAS ACCURATE SCIENCE CONTENT, AND USES SCIENTIFIC PRINCIPLES TO GET RESULTS.
- Serves a scientific purpose.
- Is engaging and interesting to use.
- Is user friendly and almost impossible to crash.
Computers are programmed to help scientists with their work. Programs can:
- Simulate behaviour using scientific understanding of interactions
Predicting the effects from a change is often difficult. Scientists might write mathematical equations of the many parts involved. They can then enter a virtual world where they can change some parts and the computer will work out the effect. The computer will also show the results in tables or graphs. Simulations are used instead of very long, difficult or dangerous experiments.
Key Dates
Friday 5 June - Sunday 28 June - report submitted online
Saturday 25 July - judging day (by appointment only)
- Control robots
Robots use sensors to get information and then respond to a change. For example a robot could sense the temperature in a glasshouse and open or close vents to suit the growing plants. Some robots move around and can sense their surroundings. They might change their behaviour depending on what they sense. Robots could be used in search and rescue situations to locate people and send a signal of where they are. - Model or help to demonstrate a scientific idea or principle
Programs can be written to show scientific concepts, or to model or simulate real life situations that are difficult to measure directly. Also, seeing interactive graphics can often make things easier to understand. - A successful entry must do more than just follow a fixed sequence of steps.
It should be innovative, and should show how the application could be applied to a practical application, or help solve a problem.
Rules for Programming, Apps & Robotics:
- Entries for all year levels may program either a robot, a computer program, an app or an electronic game.
- A group of up to 3 students can enter a Programming, Apps & Robotics entry (the highest year level in the group will determine the year category of the entry).
- All entries will be judged on the elements that are the students' own work, and not on the robot itself, or the computer language that has been applied. The judges will place high value on the originality of the entry and the potential wider practical applications that it may address.
- Programming, Apps & Robotics entries may use a wide range of programming tools or languages. Common tools include Scratch, Blockly, Microsoft MakeCode, micro:bit, Python, Arduino, MIT App Inventor, Unity, LEGO robotics, Sphero, Kookaberry, or similar.
- Your entry must include a written report that includes the following:
- The aim of the entry, and its scientific purpose and potential applications
- The type of robot or computer / device required to run the program
- Clear instructions on loading or using the entry
- A hard copy of the program and an explanation of what the sections of the program do
- Acknowledgement of any external support provided to the entry
- A bibliography that acknowledges relevant sources of information.
- Acknowledgement of any AI tools used in preparing your entry, in line with the Oliphant Science Awards AI Policy.
In presenting your Programming, Apps & Robotics entry:
- An electronic copy of your report / programming details MUST be uploaded to the Oliphant Science Awards website between 5 June - 28 June 2026. Details can be found here.
- Please be sure to include any links to your program / app or videos / photos of your robot in your report for judges to review. Students are asked to include an email address where they can be contacted directly by the judges should they require any further information.
- You must also upload your cover sheet with your Project ID details at this time (the Coordinator will have access to this).
- You will need to book an appointment time online for the judging day to be held on Saturday 25 July 2026 (bookings available from 5 June - 22 July) - NB: only one person from group entries needs to make an appointment which all members of that group are then expected to attend.
- You are required to bring your own entry with you for judging - this includes your own device / laptop and WIFI to demonstrate your entry to the judges and discuss its features and uses. Robots will be photographed so you will be able to take your projects home with you after judging.
- WIFI access will not be provided, so if your project requires internet access to function, please provide your own source.
Please note, if you are unable to attend on Judging Day, there is no other opportunity for your project to be judged in this year's competition.
Programming, Apps & Robotics appointments now open
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