ROBOTICS

course overview

Grades 6th+

Tuesdays

4:00 pm – 6:00 pm

February 4 – May 20, 2025

Facilitator: TBD

Capacity: 12 scholars

Register

$650

This course is ideal for scholars who enjoy problem-solving, technology, and hands-on activities; and especially for those who possess curiosity about engineering and programming, a collaborative spirit, and a willingness to embrace challenges.

This course introduces scholars to the exciting world of robotics, combining hands-on building with programming and engineering principles. Scholars will design, build, and program robots while exploring concepts like sensors, motors, and problem-solving strategies. With a focus on creativity, teamwork, and real-world applications, this course prepares scholars to think critically and innovate in a technology-driven world.

Scholars will understand the basics of robotics, including building, programming, and troubleshooting; develop critical thinking and teamwork skills through collaborative projects; explore real-world applications of robotics and their societal impact; build confidence in using technology to solve problems creatively; and gain hands-on experience with robotic systems and programming languages.

  • Introduction to Robotics

    • Overview of robotics and its applications in the real world.
    • Activity: Assemble a simple robot using a starter kit and learn basic safety protocols.

  • Understanding Components

    • Learn about key robotic components: motors, sensors, and controllers.
    • Activity: Identify and test each component in a small group exercise.

  • Basic Programming

    • Introduction to block-based programming (e.g., Scratch or LEGO Mindstorms) or text-based programming (e.g., Python).
    • Activity: Program a robot to perform a simple movement or task.

  • Movement and Navigation

    • Explore how robots move using wheels, tracks, or legs.
    • Activity: Program your robot to navigate a simple obstacle course.

  • Sensors and Feedback

    • Learn about sensors (e.g., touch, light, ultrasonic) and how they help robots interact with their environment.
    • Activity: Build and program a robot to respond to sensor input.

  • Problem-Solving Strategies

    • Introduction to design thinking and troubleshooting.
    • Activity: Work in teams to identify and solve a robotic challenge.

  • Advanced Programming Concepts

    • Explore loops, conditionals, and more complex coding structures.
    • Activity: Program your robot to complete a multi-step task.

  • Introduction to Robotic Arms

    • Study the mechanics of robotic arms and their uses in industry.
    • Activity: Design and program a robotic arm to pick up and move objects.
  • Team Projects Begin
    • Form teams and plan a group robotics project.
    • Activity: Brainstorm and sketch designs for your team’s robot.
  • Building and Testing Projects
    • Assemble and program your team’s robot based on your design.
    • Activity: Begin testing and refining your robot.
  • Autonomous Robotics
    • Learn how robots make decisions without human input.
    • Activity: Program your robot to follow a path using sensors.
  • Competition and Collaboration
    • Explore how robots are used in competitions like FIRST Robotics.
    • Activity: Set up a friendly class competition to test projects.
  • Real-World Applications
    • Discuss robotics in industries like healthcare, space exploration, and manufacturing.
    • Activity: Research and present on a real-world robotic innovation.
  • Troubleshooting and Iteration
    • Refine and perfect team projects.
    • Activity: Share feedback within teams to improve designs.
  • Final Project Showcase Preparation
    • Prepare team projects for a final presentation and demonstration.
    • Activity: Practice explaining your robot’s design and functionality.
  • Final Showcase and Reflection
    • Present and demonstrate team projects to peers and families.
    • Activity: Reflect on the course and celebrate achievements.

Spring

Week 1:  February 3 and 6

Week 2:  February 10 and 13

Week 3:  February 17 and 20

Week 4:  February 24 and 27

Week 5:  March 3 and 6

Week 6:  March 10 and 13

Week 7:  March 17 and 20

Week 8:  March 24 and 27

Week 9:  March 31 and April 3

Week 10:  April 7 and 10

Week 11:  April 14 and 17

Week 12:  April 21 and 24

Week 13:  April 28 and May 1

Week 14:  May 5 and 8

Week 15:  May 12 and 15

Week 16:  May 19 and 22