How to Choose a Robot to Teach Programming in Elementary School

Posted on 20/08/2024 by RobotShop in Blog, Gift Guide, Schools & Curriculum

Teaching elementary school students how to program is an excellent way to develop their problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity skills. With the right educational robots, this learning can be both engaging and effective. Unlike purely screen-based learning on a tablet, phone, or computer, using a physical robot adds a tangible, interactive element that captures students' attention and enhances their motivation. Here’s a guide to help you choose the best robot for coding education in elementary school, focusing on products available on RobotShop in 2024.

Understand the Educational Objectives

The first step in selecting a robot is to clarify the educational goals. Are you introducing basic programming concepts, or do you want to offer more advanced coding challenges?

Introductory Courses: For beginners, the Sphero Indi Student Kit is a fantastic option. This screenless robot teaches the basics of computational thinking and coding through color-based programming. It’s perfect for young learners who are just starting their coding journey.
Intermediate to Advanced Students: If students have some experience, the MakeBlock Codey Rocky is an excellent choice. This robot combines block-based coding with the option to transition into Python, providing a robust platform for students to grow their coding skills.

Consider the Level of Customization and Flexibility

Robots that offer customization allow students to explore and deepen their coding knowledge.

Highly Customizable Options: The Edison Robot V3 – EdPack1 is a highly versatile robot that can be programmed using multiple coding languages, from simple block-based coding to more advanced text-based programming. Its compatibility with LEGO bricks and various programming platforms makes it a great choice for a customizable and expandable learning experience.
Modular Platforms: The Snap Rover Robot Kit provides a modular approach to robotics. Students can build and rebuild different robot configurations using snap-together components, allowing for hands-on exploration of electronics and coding concepts.

Evaluate the Learning Curve and Support Resources

Choosing a robot with an appropriate learning curve is crucial for maintaining student engagement.

For Beginners: The Code & Go Robot Mouse is a great starting point. It introduces basic coding concepts through hands-on activities and is simple enough for young students to grasp quickly.
For More Experienced Students: The MakeBlock Codey Rocky is designed for students ready to take on more complex challenges, offering a seamless transition from block-based coding to text-based programming.

Assess the Interdisciplinary Potential

Coding can be integrated across various subjects to create a more comprehensive learning experience.

STEM and Robotics Integration: The Artie 3000 The Coding Robot is an ideal tool for integrating coding into STEM education. It allows students to program the robot to complete tasks related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, all while learning essential coding skills.
Creative and Artistic Applications: The Finch Robot Classroom Flock (w/o micro:bits) is perfect for combining coding with creativity. Students can program the Finch Robot to draw, create animations, or engage in other creative projects, making it an excellent tool for interdisciplinary learning that blends art with technology.

Budget Considerations

Balancing cost and functionality is key when selecting educational robots.

Budget-Friendly Options: The Code & Go Robot Mouse offers an affordable introduction to coding. It’s ideal for schools or parents on a budget who still want to provide a meaningful coding experience.
Premium Choices: For those looking to invest in a more advanced tool, the Cubelets Clever Constructors offers extensive capabilities and customization, making it a long-term investment for education.

Future-Proofing and Scalability

Selecting a robot that can grow with the student's skills ensures that the investment remains valuable over time.

Scalable Platforms: The Matatalab VinciBot supports both graphical programming and Python, making it adaptable to the student’s growing coding abilities.
Future-Proofing Considerations: Robots like the MakeBlock Codey Rocky are supported by active development communities and receive regular updates, ensuring they stay relevant as coding education evolves.

Conclusion

Choosing the right robot to learn programming for elementary school students involves considering the educational goals, customization options, learning curve, interdisciplinary potential, budget, and scalability. By evaluating these factors, educators and parents can provide students with the tools they need to thrive in a technology-driven world. Whether you’re starting with the basics or moving towards more advanced programming, the right robot can make a significant difference in your educational program.

If you have specific needs or questions about selecting the best robotics tools for education, our support team is here to help. Feel free to contact our support team for personalized assistance. You can also join the discussion in our forum thread about How to Choose a Robot to Teach Programming in Elementary School to share your thoughts and learn from others.

Explore our full range of educational robots across all levels of education:

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