Written by Hey there, fellow educators and curious parents! Ever wondered how to make your classroom (or home learning space) more engaging, fun, and, let’s be honest, futuristic? Look no further than coding robots! These little marvels of technology not only capture the imagination but also provide an interactive way to teach kids programming, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Petoi, the maker of lifelike bionic robot pets manufactures high-performance, open source, remote/app controlled, and highly programmable robots, where students get to learn to build and program open-source robot dog Bittle X. Today, we’re diving into five of the best coding robots perfect for classroom use. Let’s get started!
- Bittle X robot kit: Fun for All Ages
Make your kids learn to build their robot with the Bittle X construction kit by Pitoi. With Bittle X, an open-source, voice-controlled robot dog, you can help your kids learn robotics coding inScratch-like block-based coding, C++ and Python.
Features:
- Maneuverability: Pitoi’s Bittle X allows students to combine real-world exploration with voice control and programming capabilities. Students can use the dog robot in a more immersive and interactive way by programming the robot to explore the world.
- App-controlled: students can control Bittle X to move around and perform lifelike actions such as run, walk, pushup, say hi, shake hands and backflip, as well as making new simple movements.
- Voice-controlled: students can issue voice commands to Bittle X, record and program new voice commands to make Bittle X respond to custom voice commands.
- Open source: Students, along with the help of their parents or teacher, can modify and extend robots’s capabilities by modifying the inner working codes of the robot that’s based on OpenCat, the most popular quadruped robotics framework on GitHubBenefits
- Robotics STEM learning: Bittle X comes with free robotics curriculums in Petoi Coding Blocks and C++. It’s one of the best tools for learning about robotics, programming, and engineering concepts.
- Sensor compatibility: Bittle X can support a variaety of sensors， such as Light Sensor, Touch Sensor, Gesture Sensor, PIR Motion Sensor, and Infrared Distance Sensor, so that students can learn to program Bittle X to detect environment changes and adapt accordingly.
- Dash and Dot: The Dynamic Duo
First up, meet Dash and Dot. Imagine the excitement on your students’ faces when they realize they can program their own robot friends to dance, sing, and navigate obstacle courses. These two robots are like the Batman and Robin of the Robot Classroom (but less fighting crime and more learning).
Features:
- Interactive Programming: Using block-based coding apps like Blockly, students can drag and drop commands to make Dash move, light up, and make sounds.
- Sensors Galore: Dash and Dot come equipped with multiple sensors, allowing them to interact with their environment in real time.
Benefits:
- Engagement: With their cute designs and interactive features, Dash and Dot make learning to code feel more like playtime.
- Collaboration: These robots are perfect for group activities, encouraging teamwork and communication among students.
I once watched a group of third graders program Dash to perform a choreographed dance routine to “Baby Shark.” The giggles and high-fives that followed were priceless. (And, yes, the song got stuck in my head for days.)
- Sphero SPRK+: The Rolling Wonder
Next up is the Sphero SPRK+, a little ball of wonders that brings coding to life in a literal spin. (Cue the oohs and aahs from the kids.)
Features:
- App-Controlled: Using the Sphero Edu app, students can program the SPRK+ to roll, spin, and change colors through block-based coding or JavaScript for the more advanced coders.
- Waterproof and Durable: This robot can handle the rough and tumble of classroom activities, even taking a dunk in water if needed.
Benefits:
- Versatility: From simple commands to complex programming tasks, Sphero SPRK+ grows with your students’ skills.
- Creativity: Whether it’s navigating mazes or creating art with light, the possibilities are endless.
Who knew a ball could be so smart? Seriously, the things this little guy can do will blow your mind.
- LEGO Education WeDo 2.0: Building and Coding Combined
LEGO has been a staple in classrooms for decades, but the WeDo 2.0 takes it to a whole new level with robotics and coding. (Plus, who doesn’t love LEGOs?)
Features:
- Robot Building Kit: Comes with a variety of LEGO bricks, sensors, and motors to build customizable robots.
- Educational Software: The accompanying app guides students through building and programming their creations with block-based coding.
Benefits:
- Hands-On Learning: Combines the tactile satisfaction of building with the intellectual challenge of coding.
- Cross-Curricular: Great for integrating STEM subjects, from science experiments to engineering projects.
I once saw a group of fifth graders build a LEGO alligator that snapped its jaws shut when it sensed movement. The screams (of delight) were almost as loud as the applause.
5.. Ozobot Evo: Tiny Robot, Big Fun
Don’t let its small size fool you; the Ozobot Evo packs a punch when it comes to educational value. This pocket-sized robot is perfect for younger students.
Features:
- Color-Coded Programming: Students can draw lines and color codes that the Evo reads and follows.
- App-Enhanced: For more advanced programming, the Evo can be controlled via an app that uses block-based coding.
Benefits:
- Ease of Use: Simple enough for kindergartners to start with, but complex enough to keep older students engaged.
- Engagement: Its small size and responsive movements make it incredibly endearing and fun to use.
How can something so tiny make such a huge impact? Trust me, you’ll be amazed.
Integrating Robotics into Classroom Activities
Now that you’re buzzing with excitement about these robots, let’s talk about how to seamlessly integrate them into your classroom.
- Project-Based Learning: Use robotics projects to teach coding alongside other subjects. For example, build a robot to collect “samples” (marbles) in a simulated Mars environment for a science lesson.
- Collaborative Challenges: Create team-based challenges where students must work together to program their robots to complete specific tasks.
- Cross-Curricular Integration: Combine art and technology by having students design costumes or backgrounds for their robots and then program a performance.
Conclusion
So there you have it, five incredible coding robots that can transform your classroom into a hub of creativity, learning, and fun. Whether you’re a teacher looking to engage your students with the latest in educational technology or a parent wanting to spark an interest in coding at home, these robots are your ticket to a brighter, tech-savvy future.
Remember, the key to successful integration is enthusiasm and curiosity. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the process, and watch as your students (and maybe even you) fall in love with the world of robotics.
Now, who’s ready to build and code the future? (Spoiler: It’s going to be awesome!)