Robots are designed to perform simple and complex actions automatically. Controls are either external using a controller or internal using integrated circuits. Some robots can take a humanoid form like the Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility or ASIMO of Honda.
Others do not take a humanoid form and focus more on practical use. As you also know, robots can also enhance learning inside the classroom. They also enhance interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among children.
The adage “learning by doing” is applicable to the use of robotics in teaching. Good robotics programs for kids will allow them to learn a number of skills they can use in the real world.
What robotics programs can teach your kids?
Robotics programs develop problem-solving skills and creativity
Robotics programs allow students to understand how things work. Children can put together simple machines using these kits. They can start with setting up the lights of the kit and move on to assembling the robot itself. Children can also develop their problem-solving skills when they run into issues in putting together the robot. They will not mind dealing with these issues since they will have fun in putting their robot together. That’s why we think problem-based learning is so effective in this era of dynamic education.
Some children may not like reading the manuals that come with the robotics kit. An intuitive kit can solve this situation since these kits allow children to assemble the robot basing on the available parts. These kits allow children to use their imagination in letting the robot perform more than one action. They can make it move around the floor and play music. Children can also tell stories using these robotics kits. The children’s creativity is the only limitation on what these robotics kits can do.
Robotics programs improve computer programming skills
Advanced robotics programs allow children to make their own programs for their robots. Some kits allow toddlers as young as five years old to assemble their own robots. Middle school children are more inclined to working on more complex robotics kits since they have to work on programs using a computer. Children of this age have longer attention spans and have an idea about the actions their programs or codes will produce. They also look forward to working on programs. Some kits also offer numerous coding courses that allow kids to create different games on a computer. The kids develop more complex skills as the games become more complicated.
Robotics teaches science and math concepts
Good robotics programs for kids facilitate science and math learning inside the classroom. Robotics kits connect science and math concepts to the real world. Children will see different scientific theories at work with the robotics kit. These theories include the use of electricity in providing power to the robot. Kids can also understand the concepts of tension and force when they choose the materials used in the robot. Simple and complex math concepts are also demonstrated while they assemble the robot. The kids will see different geometric shapes in the robot as they put them together.
The use of robotics programs in education is gaining popularity since it allows children to have fun while they develop numerous STEM skills. Robotics is now a part of the curriculum of many schools since they facilitate learning among students.
If you are looking for a fun and engaging way to introduce your students to STEM education by teaching them to code virtual 3D robots, learn more about CoderZ and start teaching STEM with virtual and real robots today.