Shooter's Blog

Software Design 

Students are asked to create real world software and services applicationsthat use Microsoft tools and technology.  It's not just about the PC - students must think of ways to take advantage of mobile devices as well.  Students need to think big.  The judging requires students to use their creativity and drive if they want to compete on the world stage.  This is where legends are born and lives are changed - where an application starts off as an idea and ends up being used all over the world.  

Visit the Software Design competition page to learn more.

Embedded Development

As devices become smaller and more portable they are having a greater impact on our everyday lives. Desktop computing has made way for the handheld revolution, and it's happening fast.  This competition challenges students to build a complete hardware and software solution using Windows CE and a library of different hardware devices.  They have to assemble a working prototype that tackles a tough social challenge.  It's the ultimate challenge to take solutions to the streets.

Game Development

Video games are a fun part of everyday life but also represent a powerful way to create change.  This competition isa supreme test of students' creative and technical skills as they make games that are not only entertaining but take on social change. Using XNA Game Studio, students from around the world will have an opportunity to gain international exposure for their games and might even win the chance to become an apprentice at Microsoft's Interactive Entertainment Business.

Robotics & Algorithms

Robots need more than gears and wires - they require highly sophisticated algorithms to interpret and interact with the world around them. This competition is a mathematical obstacle course where students must navigate a series of brain teasers, code challenges and algorithmic puzzles to demonstrate their ability to understand the potential of robots in our world.  This exciting event takes place in a virtual world as students progress through increasingly difficult rounds.

IT Challenge

Students are challenged to develop, deploy, and maintain IT systems that are elegant, functional, robust and secure.  This demanding competition requires students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the science of networks, databases, and servers. They also need to show their analytical abilities and make tough decisions in IT environments.

Mashup

New ideas come from looking at the world in different ways.This competition challenges students to mash together elements - music, data, visuals, servicesand anything else they can think of - and rearrange them into something that dramatically changes how people look at a tough issue.  By making unexpected connections, students can make the world stand up and take notice. 

Photo Story

Great photographers know a single image can change the world.  In this competition, students communicate a story that explores a critical issue through a photo essay of inspiring still images.The photos must grab the audience and illustrate the students' personal insight into these global issues.

Short Film

Filmmaking is both a technical craft and storytelling art.In this competition, students must use all their skills to create a moving, meaningful short film.  From concept and storyboard to shooting digital footage and editing, students must find their unique voice and capture the audience's imagination.