Robotics

What powers robots, makes video games, and brings you all the cat videos on YouTube? The answer is.. Python! Python is an open-source coding language that allows us to speak to our computers through step-by-step instructions, and then be able to see (or hear!) the computer’s response. Python can be used to communicate anything from a simple mathematical equation, to an interactive game. We will use repl.it, a free, cloud coding environment, to make our programs come to life.

A hands-on workshop where participants can explore coding, robotics and space content using Mission on the Moon modules available in English and French. The modules were developed with the aim to deliver lunar rover and space themed STEM programming for Canadian youth in Grades 6 to 9.

We will introduce this 6 module free resource and educator guide with the use of BBC Micro:bits and K8 robots.

Mission on the moon is a collaborative project between Laurier ‘s Faculty of Education and Inksmith, supported by a contribution agreement with the Canadian Space Agency.

Target Grades: 4-12

The thesis of this STEAM presentation is that by allowing coding to come to life, i.e. physical applications and manipulations in 3D space, students can better visualize, make deeper learning connections, and have fun! The presentation shows how teachers can cover the elementary coding curriculum (emphasis on Intermediate) using robotics applications, through Lego EV3 Mindstorms & Spike Prime, and VexVR (all web-based Scratch-based programs) to give examples of activities that teach students about loops, conditional statements, subprograms, data analysis, and more. I will also have a small component that explores using Google Sheets/Excel to also compute/collect data and will also make connections to Micro:bits. I also give examples that cover other math strands (e.g. Spatial Sense). 

Target Grades: 7-8