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As technology evolves and expands, teachers can leverage new tools to change how students learn and interact in the classroom. Utilising student learning technology, like online modules, virtual projects, and AI-assisted programmes, is a great way for teachers to engage students in every lesson. The use of robotics in education is the latest way to incorporate learning-based technology in the classroom.
This article outlines the purpose of robotics in education, how it helps teachers and students, and what real-world applications look like. HP strives to provide users with quality products that promote learning, collaboration, and exploration.
In the late 1990s, schools began implementing classes encompassing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and coined the term STEM. These classes didn’t become popular until the early 2000s but are now found in most elementary, middle, and high schools worldwide. The combination of subjects encourages students to use their imagination, explore new possibilities, and create devices or experiments using their previous knowledge.
A common practice for middle or high school students is creating a robot at the end of the year once they’ve learned basic coding and engineering principles. This allows students to combine their engineering, mathematics, and technology skills while incorporating their own creativity.
Many schools even have a robotics club, which allows students to further practise and refine skills like coding and 3D printing. As technology and virtual offices continue to rise in popularity, it’s increasingly important for students to have these skills. STEM classes are an invaluable part of modern education and teach students the skills needed to thrive in the modern world.
HP strives to provide educators with products that enhance their classrooms and engage students in each lesson. The new line of next-generation robots is perfect for student learning and allows educators to incorporate a variety of subjects and skills in a single lesson. The Otto Robotic Kit (currently available in the United States and Europe) has easy-to-follow instructions suitable for ages eight and up with supervision.
Students can choose how to programme the robot, use expansion packs, and tap into their creative side to make different versions. Otto is a great way to introduce robotics at any age and can enhance coding lessons by helping students watch their work come to life.
There are currently two kits available, one that requires a 3D printer and another that does not. Educators with access to a 3D printer can choose the option that allows students to print the shell for the robot, giving them practise with the printing software and process.
Educators without access to a 3D printer can still enjoy these kits and choose the option with the shell included, eliminating the printing process. Students will still use skills to code and assemble the robot, making it a great option for in-person or remote learners.
Creating a robot is an exciting lesson that students look forward to each year in their STEM class. It’s a great opportunity to test their engineering, mathematics, and coding skills. The Otto Robotics Kit allows educators to teach students how to programme the robot, use coding in a real-world setting, and get creative with the learning process.
You can choose how to programme the robot, starting with easy-to-use block programming with open symbol or open word coding, all the way up to Python or C++ coding. It’s a great way to allow students to improve their coding skills and easily control the robot at any stage. Younger students can programme the robot with their computer or tablet by using block coding and assigning simple tasks like moving from one side of the room to the next.
Older students with more coding experience can use Python or C++ algorithms to create movement tracks, LED light displays, and more. The integrated camera helps the robot see where it’s going and prevents it from running into furniture or walls. Students can even draw a track for the robot to follow, teaching them how to operate it in open spaces and close quarters.
Another unique feature of this robot is its ability to create moods and emotional profiles. Students can change the robot’s face based on emotions like sadness, happiness, or anger. Changing the robot’s emotions can teach students a valuable lesson in empathy and how to express their own feelings in a healthy and conducive way.
The RGB LED light ring on the top of the robot is compatible with coding and can change colours and patterns based on student preference. All of these features are powered by a strong and rechargeable lithium battery that provides up to two hours of usage and charges in 30 minutes.
The initial coding and programming require the robot to connect to a laptop or tablet using a USB-C cable. Once programmed, Bluetooth connects it to the dashboard to complete tasks like moving, changing the lights, and more.
Incorporating robotics into student learning has many benefits. It’s a great way to teach students to take initiative and create something from scratch, which gives them a sense of purpose and meaning in the project. With the help of the easy-to-use setup guide, students can develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills while building these robots.
The HP Pavilion Plus Laptop 14-ew0116TU is a reliable device for students that offers powerful performance for programming and development work. It’s perfect for students and teachers working with robotics programmes and features the latest Intel® Core™ i5 processor for smooth operation.
The programme itself provides students with coding and programme-building experience that can prepare them for future careers in technology and engineering. It’s a great skill to have, considering the increased incorporation of technology in seemingly all businesses.
In addition to learning life-long skills, utilising robotics in the classroom can enhance engagement and interest in STEM, which provides teachers with fewer distractions while teaching. Students can enjoy working on robots and programming specific tasks or abilities as they see fit. The expansions and wide variety of programme options challenge students and keep them interested once the robot is built.
Educational robots are a fantastic way to prepare students for the future. Whether they aspire to work in technology, mathematics, or engineering, they can use these skills and advance their base knowledge before earning a degree. Beyond the technical skills learned in building robots, students will experience team-building and learn how to work with a group to achieve a common goal.
Learning how to collaborate effectively with peers is an invaluable skill that students can use in any job they might have in the future. Employers will appreciate their ability to problem-solve and work towards a common goal, and coworkers will appreciate their ability to be reliable. These students can even use their critical thinking skills to create their own business or invention that could make a positive change in society.
The robotics programme offers several levels of coding based on skill and experience. It introduces a base level to younger students and works up to real coding with programmes like Python and C++, which are used by coders worldwide. Older students can work their way up and incorporate the skills they learned through building robots into other coding programmes and technology.
Experience with coding at that level will look great on a college or job application, giving these students an edge over competing candidates. As society continues to rely on technology and AI-based programmes, setting our students up for success is increasingly important. Practising these skills with next-gen robotics is an excellent solution.
Utilising robotics in education has many benefits. It keeps students engaged in learning and provides real-world skills, making it the perfect addition to any STEM classroom. Students deserve the best education possible, and with technology appearing in seemingly every business industry, it’s important to equip students with these skills at a young age.
With robotics kits like Otto (where available), students can learn how to code, 3D print, programme, and modify robots. This unique learning opportunity is easy for educators to incorporate into the classroom. The easy-to-use guide allows students to problem-solve and work independently or with a group, providing them with valuable team-building skills.
Students learning in a remote or home setting can experience the same benefits with educational robots. It’s a great way to get creative while using important STEM skills that can help them later in life. Whether you homeschool or teach in a conventional classroom, consider incorporating robotics into your curriculum to advance your students’ coding and engineering skills.
Mon-Sat 9.00am - 7.00pm
(exc. Public Holidays)
Mon-Sat 9.00am - 7.00pm
(exc. Public Holidays)
Live product demo
