Dash Robot is a crazy fun learning experience for students (and teachers!). There are tons of things to do with Dash, including some fun accessories sold separately for an added challenge.
Best for: Grade 1-5 students; small groups, partners, or independent
Teacher prep: I played this game for about an hour prior to introducing to students. I also watched a few YouTube videos.
Pre-teaching: Depending on how you want to introduce this to students, you may introduce one app at a time or just allow students to explore on their own. I would take some time to explore each app before recommending to students.
Pros: Great software and design. Engaging sounds. Easy to use. Great introduction and set-up videos. Can be used with tablets or smartphones. Has apps for pre-readers.
Cons: Storage for Dash robot and the cool accessories are sold separately. Hard to use with more than a few students at time. App doesn't work with old iPads. Bluetooth gets confused and disconnects when there are many robots in action at once.
Dot Robot is a great introduction to coding and robotics. The creativity kit comes with self-guiding challenges and other do-it-yourself projects. Who doesn't love a good game of robot hot potato?!
Best for: Grade 1-5 students; any group size depending on activity
Teacher prep: I looked through the cards and played with Dot for about 15 minutes before playing with students. I also watched a few YouTube videos!
Pre-teaching: Depending on how you want to introduce this to students, you may introduce one app at a time or just allow students to explore on their own.
Pros: Great software and design. Engaging sounds. Easy to use. Great introduction and set-up videos. Can be used with tablets or smartphones. Has apps for pre-readers.
Cons: Limited activities if you don't buy the creativity kit. Not many accessories sold separately. Dot robot does not move. App doesn't work with old iPads. Bluetooth gets confused and disconnects when there are many robots in action at once.
Wow. Talk about a versatile tool. The WeDo 2.0 can be used with so many Lego robotics kits, the opportunities are endless! We kicked off our First Lego League Jr. using this robot and then continued to use it in other capacities.
Best for: Grade 2-5 students; small groups, partners, or independent
Teacher prep: It's very useful to play around with the WeDo and the app before you show it to students. The coding language (pictures) are something you want to be especially familiar with to assist students. I'd recommend playing around on a project or two for at least an hour.
Pre-teaching: Depending on the format you choose to introduce it to students and what kit or Lego materials you have to go with it, you may want to consider having students choose a project from the WeDo 2.0 app to begin with before they "freestyle."
Pros: Great app and design. Great guiding videos. Can be used with tablets, computers, or smartphones. Diverse project options (depending on the kit you have). Other lesson plans available online (outside of the app).
Cons: You have to reconnect the bluetooth frequently. It can't be used on more than one project at a time. It's pretty bulky, so designs have to be pretty solid.