Coding With Robots Workshop
Based on the BBC micro:bit and Maqueen robot
This is a beginner workshop that is designed to teach children the basics of coding and programming of robots. It is based on the micro:bit programming device developed by the BBC. The students will be given an introduction to the popular Microsoft MakeCode and Python programming languages.
Format
Primary: 2 x 2.5hrs
Secondary: 2 x 2.5hrs
(25 students per session)
Contact us for bigger events.
Age Group
Year 3 - Year 13
KS2, KS3, KS4, KS5
Get Creative with the microbit
- Code the LED display to show your name, smiley faces, flashlight sequences and more.
- Code to use the accelerometer and thermometer sensors.
- Code to build a compass
Code the Maqueen Robot
- Code to move the robot in patterns.
- Code an obstacle avoiding robot.
Coding Programmes
- - Primary and secondary school children will learn to use Microsoft Makecode.
- - We can also deliver this workshop with MicroPython for more advanced learners.
Meet Out Robots
Capabilities
- Bluetooth control
- Obstacle avoidance
- Text-Speech communication
- Object detection and tracking
- Travel on outdoor terrain
Higher Learners
We also provide coding workshops to college and undergraduate university students. Read more here.
Typical Workshop Day
- Introduce children to the micro:bit programming device, how it works, and the lesson plan for the day.
- Give children an overview of different programming languages and introduce them to the Microsoft MakeCode block programme.
- Practical - Hand out the worksheet guide and take children through the different activities from coding the LEDs to using some of the sensors.
- Explain to children how we will control the robot's motion using voltage pulses, and how the distance sensor works to avoid obstacles.
- Practical - Code a simple programme to move the robot in a square. Then download, run and test the obstacle avoidance programme.
- Show children our home built robots which have various functions from facial recognition to Bluetooth control.
- Usually, we will reset the session and repeat it for another group of children on the same day. As with all our engagements, we will end the day with a street-dance performance.
Testimonials
"Vidura visited our school with his ‘Coding with Robots’ workshop. The workshop was packed with scaffolded activities which lead the pupils through using code to control an LED display, incorporating sound, measuring the earth's gravitational field strength, and on to controlling a robot and obstacle avoidance. The workshop was very interactive and it provided our pupils with an insight into some of the applications of coding in the world today."
Georgia Wiseman, Carew Academy