The M5 STEM Robotics Workshop is a fun robotics program for students ages 12 and up that involves building and programming robots to navigate mazes or perform specific tasks, such as collecting objects or solving puzzles. This hands-on approach fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills while introducing basic robotics concepts like sensors, motors, and programming.
Here’s a more detailed look at key lesson plan elements:
- Introduction to Robotics:
o What is a robot? Define robots and their applications in various fields.
o Types of robots: Discuss different robot types, such as industrial robots, service robots, and research robots.
o Basic robotics components: Introduce essential components like motors, sensors, and control systems. - Hands-on Project: Maze Navigation:
o Robot design and building:
Students can design and build a simple robot using readily available materials, like LEGO bricks or recycled items, with motors and basic sensors.
o Programming for maze navigation:
Introduce a simple coding language (like Scratch) or a block-based programming environment to program the robot to navigate a maze, utilizing sensor inputs to make decisions.
o Troubleshooting and debugging:
Students learn to identify and fix issues in their robot’s programming and design, fostering problem-solving skills. - Extension Activities:
o Object collection:
Modify the robot to collect objects from a designated area, using sensors to detect objects and motors to manipulate them.
o Puzzle solving:
Design a puzzle that the robot must solve, like stacking blocks or moving pieces, requiring more complex programming and logic.
o Creating a challenge:
Students can create their own challenges for others to solve, promoting creativity and innovation. - Learning Objectives:
o Students will learn basic robotics concepts like sensors, motors, and programming.
o Students will develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills through hands-on project work.
o Students will learn to collaborate with peers and communicate technical ideas.
o Students will gain experience in design, building, and programming.