The KISS Institute for Practical Robotics (KIPR) was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1994 with the aim of making the long-term educational benefits of robotics accessible to students. The organization’s name derives from the well-known acronym “Keep It Simple, Students,” a guiding principle that students have found particularly valuable in the process of designing their robots.
KIPR’s mission is to:
The KISS Institute for Practical Robotics (KIPR) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on advancing STEM education through robotics. Established in 1994 and based in Norman, Oklahoma, KIPR is dedicated to fostering autonomous robotics technologies for educational purposes.
As a national organization, KIPR is supported by a dedicated staff, enthusiastic volunteers, and generous sponsors. The institute was co-founded with a vision to establish a center of excellence for autonomous robotics technology, providing STEM education that encompasses the training of educators and mentors, while engaging students in collaborative, rigorous, and goal-oriented STEM activities. These activities are designed to illuminate academic and career pathways within STEM fields.
A key aspect of KIPR’s educational philosophy is that its projects are student-driven, with adults serving as facilitators. This approach is embodied in a comprehensive strategy that includes standards-aligned curricula, reusable autonomous robotics technology, and ongoing professional development for educators. This continuous professional development and networking support has proven highly effective, as educators have a daily, lasting influence on their students. Teachers, often serving as role models, play a crucial role in guiding students’ decisions about their future academic and professional pursuits in STEM.
KIPR fulfills its mission through several flagship programs, including:
In addition to these programs, KIPR engages in ongoing research and product development related to hardware, software, and curricula for autonomous robotics and STEM education. Currently, KIPR’s programs are active in 32 states and four international regions, collectively impacting an estimated 70,000 students annually. KIPR is recognized as a leading provider of programming-based educational robotics programs.