Embedded Files
Coding in the STEM classroom is often paired with robots. This type of programming teaches real-world problem-solving, collaboration, can be cross-curricular, not to mention FUN!
There are lots of popular coding tools, we explore two of the robotic types below: Finch and Ozobot Ari
Coding in the STEM classroom is often paired with robots. This type of programming teaches real-world problem-solving, collaboration, can be cross-curricular, not to mention FUN!
There are lots of popular coding tools, we explore two of the robotic types below: Finch and Ozobot Ari
Finch Robot
Finch Robot
Sharpen math skills like multiplication and graphing. Calculate speed, or even explore animal adaptations!
The Finch Robot 2.0 from BirdBrain Technologies is a bird‑shaped mobile robot designed to introduce students of all grade levels to hands‑on coding and STEM learning. It's celebrated for its “low floor, high ceiling” approach, making coding accessible from beginner to advanced learners. Finch is equipped with a Bluetooth‑connected micro processor, dual wheel encoders, light and line sensors, an ultrasonic obstacle detector, tri‑color LEDs, a multi‑tone buzzer, and a compass. Its rechargeable battery can last over 7 hours per charge. Other features include a centrally‑mounted marker holder and Lego adapters, enabling creative activities like drawing, maze‑tracking, and storytelling. Free, standards‑aligned lesson plans, teacher guides, and professional development are available from its parent company, BirdBrain.
From the Experts
From the Experts
Lauwers, Tom, Designing the Finch: Creating a Robot Aligned to Computer Science Concepts, Proceedings of the First Symposium on Educational Applications of AI, 2010.
Lee, Sarah B. and Rian B. Walker, Engaging Middle School Girls in Computing with a Project-based Summer Experience, ASEE Southeast Section Conference, 2014.
Ozobot Ari
Ozobot Ari
Use the interactive display to gather data, collect measurements, and navigate environments
Ozobot Ari is a compact, Android‑powered educational robot featuring a high-resolution touchscreen that allows K–12 students to interact directly with standards-aligned lesson content through vivid visuals and real‑time feedback. Ari supports multiple programming modes including screen‑free Color Codes and text‑based Python. It reinforces STEM content and core subjects like math, science, ELA, and social studies through physical exploration of concepts like motion, distance, and obstacle detection.. Ari is equipped with a variety of sensors including an accelerometer, gyroscope, IR and time‑of‑flight sensors. AI integration through the Ozobot Editor adds advanced features like simulations, natural‑language prompts, and performance feedback, enhancing personalized learning paths.
From the Experts
From the Experts
Balaton, M. C., Da Silva, L. F., & Carvalho, P. S. (2020). Teaching kinematics with OZOBOT: a proposal to help improve student’s graph interpretation skills. Physics Education, 55(5), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6552/ab97a4
Balaton, M., Cavadas, J., Carvalho, P. S., & Lima, J. J. G. (2021). Programming Ozobots for teaching astronomy. Physics Education, 56(4), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6552/abfb44
References
________________
Finch Robot 2.0. (n.d.). BirdBrain Technologies. https://www.birdbraintechnologies.com/products/finch-robot-2-0/
Get to Know Ari. (n.d.). https://ozobot.com/ari/
Ozobot Revolutionizes Education with Ari, the App-Powered Robot. (2025, January 21). PR Newswire. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ozobot-revolutionizes-education-with-ari-the-app-powered-robot-302355620
Poth, R. D. (n.d.). 8 Great Tools to Bring STEM Into Any Classroom. https://www.edutopia.org/article/stem-teaching-tools-all-classrooms/
Page updated
Report abuse