Robotics and Coding at PS13k Roberto Clemente

Through the National Enrichment Group (NEG) and New York Edge, eduSTEM provided an 11-week Robotics and Coding after-school program at PS13K.

Students in grades 2-5 were introduced to the fundamentals of coding using SCRATCH and SCRATCH Jr., a kid programming language developed by MIT that uses Lego-like virtual "blocks."

Kids were tasked with creating original stories using characters and settings of their own design. They then programmed these characters to move, change size, and "talk" to each other using text bubbles!

After the kids mastered SCRATCH, we moved on to programming a microcontroller (mini-computer) called the micro:bit. Using MakeCode, students learned if/then statements by programming an action whenever the user activated certain inputs. For example, they coded it to display a smile when you press the 'A' button or play some music when you press the 'B' button.

(Above) Students programming the micro:bit kid microcontroller. You can tell the class was excited!

The class put all their knowledge to the test by programming Elecfreaks' super cute TPBot! The micro:bit slots into the top and becomes the brain for our cute robot. Students were challenged to work in groups and to figure out how to make their robot avoid obstacles using the ultrasonic (distance) sensor that looks like cute eyes on our robot. In order to do that, students had to learn if/else statements to program the robot to ask a "question" that had two separate solutions!

After that, students added bricks to their robots to accomplish specific tasks. There were races and a robot wrestling match. Students also learned how to use precise external motors called servos to push or flip other robots with arms they built.

(Above) Three students, ready to race!

NOTE: All of these pictures were altered to protect the identities of the students. We did not, in fact, teach a class of emoji people with cool hats and sunglasses.

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"Working with eduSTEM has been an absolute pleasure. Sebastian is a professional who is not only knowledgeable in his field but also dedicated to providing top-notch service and support to the children. He took the time to understand the children’s unique needs and developed a tailored curriculum that exceeded our expectations. I strongly recommend eduSTEM for anyone seeking innovative STEM activities for their school or after-school programs. Our children looked forward to their Robotics and Coding class every week!"

Ashley Cuevas - Assistant Community School Director | New York EDGE PS13k