This year has been a busy one already, recently we launched our Robotics Library and for the past 3 weeks we've had our first round of Monash University Pre-Service Teachers.
The Robotics Library will be used by students as an engaging method of build their coding skills, although for the Pre-Service Teachers is was a way to introduce them to the different teaching styles we use at the Tech School, and the various ways technologies can be included in learning environments.
Have a read of what one of the Pre-Service Teachers gained from working with the Robotics Library and how it can be included in learning environments.
Through the coding and robotics workshop, I was exposed to a wide variety of advanced classroom technological tools such as Dash, Cozmo, Osmo, and BeeBoot.
These tools significantly enrich students' learning experience in a diverse range of subjects including Science, Math, English, Media, etc. At the same time, it provides opportunities for students to engage in STEM-based activities and develop transferable skills such as independent learning, problem-solving, inquiry-based learning skills across multiple disciplinary areas.
Although these Apps provide excellent platforms for students to build their foundation in coding, the selection of the robotic tools also plays an important role in classroom learning. Since the level of difficulty in using Dash, Cozmo, Osmo, and BeeBoot vary, it is important for educators to choose the activity wisely based on the learning capacity of the class and the age range of the students. For example, Cozmo would be used for more mature aged students (lower secondary) due to the higher level of complexity involved in decoding, while students at all ages (from primary to secondary) will be able to decode the rest of the robots. Hence, by programming their robot's sensors, students will develop their critical thinking, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills while working independently or collaboratively with their peers to decode.
I truly believe that this would help create a very hands-on learning environment which is crucial as it enables all learners to make connections between the theoretical knowledge and the real-world problems.
written by Zoe Zhang
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