Meaningful Learning through Robotics Programs (Oct. 2nd Assignment)

This week, I happened to come across an article about robotics programs and the high value they offer students who are developing the skills they need to become 21st century learners.  Participants design and build robots collaboratively with classmates.  The purpose is varied - robotics can easily be linked to curriculum content. All of these uses for robotics provide the potential for teachers to integrate STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) into their students' learning experiences.  One possible area of focus is English Language Arts; robots can be designed with the intent of exploring story elements or creating an original story.  This provides an opportunity to tie in to Common Core Standards.

Students as young as elementary school age can participate in these programs. LEGO offers a robotics program called WeDo Robotics targeted to children ages 7 through 12.  Here's an example of a project designed using LEGO software.

Problem solving and critical thinking skills can be attained even without the use of physical kits. Some teachers have their students design their robots through illustrations or online games, like Build A Robot 3.

Robotics programs align with a number of the NETS standards.  Some of the more prominent standards for robotics may fall under the following areas:

Creativity and Innovation

• Create original works as a means of personal or group expression. 
• Use models and simulations to explore complex systems and issues.

 Communication and Collaboration

• Contribute to project teams to produce original works or solve problems

Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, and Decision Making

• Plan and manage activities to develop a solution or complete a project

Here is a great example of collaboration between students at Frontier Middle School in Graham, Washington.  They programmed their robots to work together to perform a "wave."

Robotics programs tend to be used more as extracurricular activities and are generally not part of the daytime school curriculum. Bringing the program to the classroom would be a fantastic way to provide a content-rich educational experience for students. It is the ideal cross-curricular project, reaching students not only through Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, but also with the potential to reach them through Reading Language Arts too.  Students have an opportunity to develop skills in critical thinking, problem solving, collaborating, and innovating.  Robotics connects with many topics in our textbook: inquiring, experimenting, and designing, for instance.  The library media specialist as instructional partner would be the perfect person to bring this meaningful, exciting, and engaging experience into the school.