The Robotics AcademyChanging the Cultural Nature of Teaching

The Robotics Academy Mission Statement

“Use the motivational effects of robotics to excite this and future generations of children to study science and

technology”

Students today need to prepare for their future like they are preparing for the

OlympicsThe only problem is they won’t know what event they will compete in until they get

there.

Reading, wRiting, aRithmetic & Robotics

Mathematics Programming

Sensor Feedback

Geometry

Electronics

Engineering

Ratios &Proportions

Science

Mechanics

Physics

“The 4th R in Education”

Measurement

Computer Science

SimpleMachines

Academic Concepts

Reading, wRiting, aRithmetic & Robotics

“The 4th R in Education”

Time Management

Project Management

Resource Allocation

Systems Analysis

Design

Problem Solving

Habits of Mind

Teamwork

Workplace Competencies

How did we decide what to include in our lessons?

Backward Design ProcessRobotics Academy Robotics Curriculum

1. Identify desired results.

2. Determine acceptable evidence.

3. Plan learning experiences and instruction.

Understanding by Design - Grant Wiggins, Jay McTighe

All students are mathematically competent, technologically literate, and able to communicate clearly.

Students are able to apply fundamental mathematics and science concepts to solve robotic problems as well as explain them.Immerse students in situations where they are required to “do” math and science rather than study them.

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

Geometry

Data

Measurement

Algebra

Numbers

Grade 5 Grade 8 Grade 11

30%

30%

17%

10%13%

Content Emphasis on Standardized Math Test Grades 5, 8, 11

Mathematics Deficiencies Grade 8

They do less well in:

Geometry

Measurement

Proportionality

According to statistics presented by Frank Marburger, Pennsylvania Department of Education, Mathematics Division

Understanding Gear Basics

Understanding Sensor Basics

Designing a Robot Chassis

Measuring Force/Torque

Measuring Rotational

Speed

Controlling Rotation

Measuring Distances

Calculating Heading

Writing a Program to Navigate a

Path

Technological concepts children integrate when they design, build, and program robots

“Understanding is more than learning, it is learning and knowing how to apply in context.”

Science for All Americans, American Association for the Advancement of Science

Gear Basic Meas. Meas. Applying Writing BuildingBasics Electronics Speed Force Sensors Programs Robots

Fractions X X X X X X X

Decimals X X X X X X X

Measurement X X X X X X X XRatios/proportions X X X X X X X XConversion of Units X X X X X X X XSpeed, velocity X X X X X

Force, torque X X X X

Diameter/Circumference X X X X X

Applied Geometry X X X X

Electromagnetic Spectrum

X X X X X

Applied Algebra X X

Logic/Scientific Thinking X X X X X X X X

Navigation

Math and Science Concepts Integrated When Designing An Autonomous Robot

Gear Basic Meas. Meas. Applying Writing BuildingBasics Electronics Speed Force Sensors Programs Robots

Fractions X X X X X X X

Decimals X X X X X X X

Measurement X X X X X X X XRatios/proportions X X X X X X X XConversion of Units X X X X X X X XSpeed, velocity X X X X X

Force, torque X X X X

Diameter/Circumference X X X X X

Applied Geometry X X X X

Electromagnetic Spectrum

X X X X X

Applied Algebra X X

Logic/Scientific Thinking X X X X X X X X

Navigation

Academic Concepts taught using roboticsProportionality, Conversion of Units

Measurement

Geometry

The Academic Concepts Children in 8th grade have historically not tested well on are Geometry, Measurement, and Proportionality

Knowledge should emerge from problem situations so that students “have a strong

conceptual basis for reconstructing their knowledge at

a later time.” National Council of Teachers of Mathematics

“Knowing” mathematics is “doing” mathematics.”

The Robotics Vision

“All students have the 21st century skill sets that enable them to make positive contributions globally.”