Educators look for ways to get students excited about STEM. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In the past, classes were book driven with theories and lectures with little critical thinking. Lego Robotics enables students to have hands on experimental activities in the classroom. Mobile robots are built from parts. They are programmed to move on ramps, and turn, use pulleys and levers to move objects. Students are encouraged to use creative problem solving strategies. Decisions are made collaboratively with communication a necessary skill. Robots can be used in science experiments by reading levels of moisture, pH balance, and temperature. It can be used to measure distances in a Math classroom. It makes physics, circuits along with all the sciences tangible into the Engineering classroom. There is an answer to engaging students in the sciences along with critical thinking in robotics.
How did schools first become involved with Lego Robotics?
They started as after school FIRST Lego League (FLL) clubs. Dean Kamen founded "For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology" 20 years ago which is a world wide non-profit organization. It was made to inspire students with mentors to engage future scientists and engineers in robotics. The Junior program is for 6-9 year olds, and the other is for 9-14 year olds. To be a part of the International program, a group with one or two parents / teachers with experience in robotics may join.
Are international competitions interesting?
You might think that a small group of science inspired students gather for a quiet uneventful event. Actually, FLL competitions are very loud and crowded with students, parents, and teachers cheering their team on. Everyone is excited to be involved.
Do students enjoy robotics classes?
Ian Chow Miller, a teacher from Graham, WA says "this is one of the only classes I have taught where students want to continue working past the bell." The class is very popular, and are in high demand by students. They develop, analyse and compute what they need to make heir project work voluntarily. It makes science make sense.
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