The benefits of using robotics kits in education are far-reaching in both the short and long term. Of course, using robotics tools helps kids learn some of the most important coding concepts with methods kids can more easily understand. Now, robotics experiences are inclusive of almost all students and features of classroom robots more effectively meet everyone’s needs.
In these last few weeks before winter break, it’s easy to get distracted from learning. And we get it—everyone needs a break! In the meantime, though, we put together this list of festive projects from some of our favorite STEM tools. Kids can make a mold for a chocolate dreidel, have a robot snowball fight, or even craft custom snowflake garlands with these holiday activities.
Students can use the Root rt0 without any prior coding experience or prior experience using their standard Root model. The rt0 is compatible with the iRobot Coding app, which students can access on iOS or Android devices as well as others. There’s also the online iRobot Code platform, which kids can use to practice programming without a physical robot.
For students, learning to code is both essential and accessible. With many age-appropriate classroom coding solutions available, helping them to see the possibilities, benefits, and enjoyment of robotics and coding education is very much possible for instructors to accomplish. Plus, other benefits of CS education, like boosting creative problem solving skills, are extensive.
The Root Robot by iRobot Education is regularly among the most versatile educational robotics devices. With its three levels of coding and something for all students—from pre-readers up to veteran programmers—within their iRobot Coding platform, instructors can access impactful STEAM projects, incorporate new coding concepts, and boost students’ CS development.
Similar in both appearance and functionality to the original Root Robot, the Root rt0 allows educators to deliver hands-on STEAM experiences that are practical and relevant. And, although they do look similar, there are several key differences teachers should know. Once you are up to speed, however, it’s a fantastic addition to coding lessons throughout the K–12 grades.
The Root coding robot is one of the most versatile classroom robots in K–12 education. With three progressing programming levels and whiteboard climbing capabilities, it provides so much authentic value for both STEAM teachers and students—even helping introduce pre-readers to coding with its multitude of fun sensors and other programmable features.
We were joined by iRobot’s Anna Elzer and Daniella Bonazzoli, who shared the iRobot story, including how, despite being known for the world-famous Roomba robot, every member of their organization is also committed to education. With help from the audience, they discussed the Root robots, the tech within them, creating SEL connections, and more.
With three different levels, students can try block coding, hybrid coding, and text coding while controlling a variety of the Root’s features. There have also been updates to the Root, including new Android and computer or laptop compatibility. We’ll introduce you to the iRobot coding simulator as well and explore its amazing features!
Starting in early elementary, students can use the Root Robot to try block coding, move onto hybrid coding in upper elementary and middle school, and then use it to learn text coding in upper middle and high school. Since teachers and students now find themselves navigating remote learning, its newest features help make the Root even more appealing.
