Philosophy

Robotics is just one potential application of algorithms and coding. Other areas include web development, gaming, mobile apps, and e-commerce. While robotics is exciting, it is important to focus on developing computational thinking skills to ensure learners' coding abilities can be applied across various fields and solutions.

Switching languages before students develop a strong grasp of programming concepts can lead to anxiety, fragmented learning, conceptual overload, and inefficient use of teaching time.

Scratch and Tinkercad are both block-based programs that enable learners to seamlessly switch between coding and circuits (robotics).

An introductory programming language should have:

• a low floor (easy to get started with minimal barriers),

• wide walls (flexibility for a variety of projects),

• and a high ceiling (supports more advanced programming).

Scratch is the ideal block-based program that is freely available.

 Coding in Scratch ensures students can easily create programs reducing anxiety and increasing confidence.

• No syntax to learn

• Visual and intuitive

• Engaging

• Wide range of applications

To make the abstract concrete, use programming examples that involve the senses. seeing (graphics and block-based coding), hearing (add music to your Scratch code), feeling (use emotive topics).

 Learners grasp coding by actively doing:

• Write and create programs

• Trace code step by step

• Experiment by modifying code to observe and understand its effects

• Use trace tables to track how variables change

• Explore alternative solutions

• Apply computational thinking and problem-solving strategies, like the "3 before me" rule.

There is a significant amount of poorly written code that has caused serious disruptions in our lives. Examples include the Y2K bug and the catastrophic failures in Boeing's software systems. It is not enough to simply say, "but it works." Code must be written with the understanding that it could remain in use for decades. Teach students to code ethically by considering the limitations and effects of each program and considering possible solutions to ensure long-term reliability and safety.

Introducing a new subject or adapting an existing one is a complex process. It will take a few years to perfect. Be gentle with staff and learners as they navigate the curriculum.

Try to include projects that learners can relate to and will generate enthusiasm. 

Celebrate the victories no matter how small! 

It is not necessary to invest in costly hardware to teach coding and robotics. Both Scratch and TinkerCAD are free programming tools with comparable instructions and features. 

Learners can design and prototype Arduino and Micro circuits using TinkerCAD's online circuit builder and code editor. The code created in TinkerCAD can be downloaded and used with physical devices.