This year we made sure to keep pace with the growing demand and need for technology and robotics in the classroom. It was a rewarding experience watching our Kindergarten students learn how to code while exploring the many options available on Dash and Dot robots at all campuses. After a brief introduction, the children were asked to identify the primary and secondary colours which they would use in an activity that involved coding.
Once the students were ready to begin, they were partnered up and given a robot as well as a tablet to work with. The first activity they learned about while using Dash was an app called “Go”. During this activity, the children were taught how to make Dash’s head move. By using this robotics app, the students were able to explore gestures, voice control and advanced mechatronics. This app brought the robots to life and kept our students entertained, engaged and educated.
When the students came back from their snack break, they seemed excited to see Dash with additional attachments such as the xylophone. At a young age, our students are curious about technology and appeared fascinated with these robots. The second activity they learned about while using Dash was called “Xylo”. During this activity, the students used coding to make Dash’s head move allowing him to use the stick to play the xylophone. The students also added some coding to make dash move (almost like he was dancing) while playing the instrument. By introducing coding through robotics, we work to inspire our students to explore the exciting world of engineering and technology.
The students were given the opportunity to implement their own movement and music with Dash, through coding. By exposing our students to these robots, we are encouraging them to engage in activities that involve the academic component with real world application. Plus it is all done in a fun learning environment. Finally, our purpose of bringing in Dash and Dot, was to make learning to code fun for our students. Teaching basic robotics to our students is an excellent way to foster a love for science, technology, engineering and math that will grow with them.
We look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the private school community of which we are so proud!
To learn more about Rowntree Montessori Schools (RMS), continue browsing our website and ideally drop by any of our welcoming, friendly and family oriented campuses for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm. If you prefer, call to book an appointment for a personal tour anytime Monday-Friday 9:30am-3:00pm.
More details about Rowntree Montessori Schools‘ approach to education can be seen by clicking here.
