School Programs

At Rocks and Robots Experiences we use many different tools and situations to teach teamwork and technology skills.

We use Robotic vehicles to teach computer programming. Through the “Magic of Motion” students are drawn to use higher-level thinking and communication skills in order to explain and program their robots. They are naturally and rightly thrilled when their own clear and methodical thinking produces the motions and actions that they desire.

For the Robotics Experience we provide computers, software, LEGO Robots, kits of parts robot controllers all challenge necessary materials and experienced instructors. By keeping the groups small (10 –12) and by paring students we can challenge students with complex multi-step problems while still stacking the deck in favor of success.

Here are a few options that we can offer:

Option 1: (1 hour/student) Using the LEGO Mindstorms NXT robot kits, students will become familiar with the fundamentals of computer programming. We teach the students an icon based, drag and drop computer language that is easy learn for many different types of learners. Students use this language to combine basic elements (analogues to functions and subroutines) like motion control icons and sensor icons to build programming that exhibit “intelligent” behavior. Students will program their robots to follow multi-step programs to drive in different patterns. They will also integrate sensors into their programs so that their robots can interact with their surroundings through touch and light.

Option 2: (2 – 3 hours/student) In this option students learn everything in option one plus they take it to a higher level with the computer programming concept of flow control. They learn to write programs that have multiple potential decision paths. Rather than a static sequence of commands the robots will use their sensors to “choose” among multiple options. The “behavior” of the robot is no longer predictable but changes with interaction with the environment. Students will also use the robot claw to change the environment. Students may choose to program their robots to approach, sense, capture and deliver a ball to a specified location. The programming concepts covered in this section include branching and nesting.

Option 3: We can also offer more intense day and half day long programs for smaller groups of strongly interested students.