Robotics Course for Kids

About the Course

In the first module (Robotics 1A) students will learn how to use their micro:bit (a computer microprocessor used for prototyping and coding) to code using the Makecode block editor. Using the Makecode platform, they will investigate and build interactive projects and learn to understand the concepts and terminology used in Coding.

In the second course (Robotics 1B), students will learn how to use more complex features on the micro:bit, whilst doing more intricate coding in Makecode. This course focuses on sensory data and pins, like temperature, direction, acceleration, and light levels.

Benefits

Creativity and problem-solving abilities

Robotics promotes an environment for children to think freely and creatively. Whilst brainstorming robotic concepts children will be faced with obstacles in their creation process that will encourage them to come up with solutions to overcome these challenges. Robotics teaches children to work through complex problems, to see things analytically and improves problem-solving abilities.

Social and emotional skills

Building a robot is a complex task that takes patience and courage. Robotics provides an ideal environment for a child to work through complex puzzles and teaches them how to handle making mistakes. In Robotics, mistakes are welcomed as they usually reveal crucial information that is needed to solve the problem at hand.

This teaches children to keep going, even when they fail, and allows them to experience the rewards associated with perseverance. Coding isn’t only about the app, software, robot or digital solutions, coding is a multidisciplinary field where students will gain knowledge and tools that go way beyond the pure line of code.

Technological career development

The demand for STEM-related jobs will remain strong in the future. Programmers are required in almost every field and Robotics is a valuable skill set to introduce children to a digital career pathway. Being computer literate is now mandatory in many job roles and it has become a necessity for a child’s future to learn essential computer skills.

A Robotics course teaches children to become more comfortable and confident in a field of technology. This helps promote critical thinking skills, boosts self-confidence and sets them up to explore a career in technology.

Science and math concepts

Robotics takes a different approach to teaching children science and math concepts that would otherwise be difficult for them to understand. These concepts give children practical examples of lessons that were previously learnt from a textbook and helps promote a more hands-on learning environment.

Promotes a love of learning

Children learn better when they have an active interest in the subject matter. Robotics is FUN and therefore assists in promoting an environment where children want to learn. This helps destigmatise science and math education concepts.

Course Information

Duration

10 weeks x 2 modules = 20 weeks

Requirements

No previous knowledge is required.
A device to connect to the internet.
Access to BBC micro:bit is not mandatory but it is highly recommended for optimal learning outcomes

Suggested Age Levels

Ages 10-13 years