What are Simple Robotics?

Simple Robotics are interactive and programmable robots that provide an engaging way for students to learn the skills of computational thinking and coding and begin to gain an understanding of the possibilities and power of digital technologies.

Why would I use Simple Robotics in the classroom?

They offer a set of connected applications that begin with basic driving functions and move all the way to block based coding similar to MIT’s Scratch. The majority of simple educational robots can be integrated across Stages 1 to 4. Some have a humanoid style design, providing a personality which opens up many other cross curricular opportunities, and provides a personal connection for learners often intimidated by traditional electronics and robotics. This aspect also has positive implications for learners with special needs. Students navigating a maze with Dash using an iPad

Curriculum Connections

In addition to coding and computational thinking outcomes, you can easily apply simple robots across the curriculum. Is your robot a natural disaster rescue robot in geography and science? Does it form part of an advertising campaign or a narrative in english? Can they assist in demonstrating mastery of key mathematical concepts including geometry and distance in mathematics?

Educational robotics manufacturers frequently have entire curricula to work alongside them for classroom application. In addition there are often educational communities with many classroom resources designed by educators for educators. Here are a couple of examples:

Dash & Dot: https://teachers.makewonder.com/

Sphero: https://edu.sphero.com/

Check out the support resources available to you before selecting a robot for your classroom.

Device Compatibility: Robot Dependent

Stage Suggestion: 1 through 6

For further information contact the T4L team: T4LNews@det.nsw.edu.au

Tips and tricks in the eT4L environment (typical school)

Depending on the robot you choose you may require a specific device to operate it. It always pays to ensure you have the technology required to support your chosen robot. In addition, we recommend checking forums to see the experiences of other educators, particularly those within the unique environment of your education system. Finally, before buying a class set, we recommend trying one first to see if it meets the needs of your users and works within your environment.

The majority of these robots connect to tablets or computers via Bluetooth, so there are typically minimal connection issues within school environments, but it always pays to begin with one as a test!

Stories from Schools

There are many schools across New South Wales, Australia and the world that have embraced Simple Robots to integrate coding, problem solving and computational thinking across the curriculum. Cathie Circosta and her students from Hoxton Park Public School have been working with many types of simple robotics for a number of years, with links across the curriculum as well as to the 21st century skills of communication and collaboration.

Safety considerations

When using any technology in the classroom please make sure you:

Read/comply with all manufacturer’s instructions for safe use
Observe and comply with age range recommendations
Consult your school's WHS representative
Consult the Equipment Safety in Schools (ESIS) register to check for implementation advice