Robotics Rock in Pierce County!
By Betsy Fradd, WSU Extension 4-H
Spinning Elementary students in Puyallup are learning how engineering and technology turn Legos into robots.
Fifth and sixth graders build and program robots to complete various tasks. Students work in small groups to assemble their robot and, using the Lego Mindstorm NXT computer program, allow the robot to see, hear, and respond to different commands.
“It’s cool to create something that has multiple fields of intelligence,” said Jordan, a sixth grader.
Principal Laura King sees students developing higher order problem solving abilities, teamwork, and communication skills as they assemble their robots.
“Through the robotics program students are discovering strengths about themselves that might otherwise go unnoticed and that the collaboration they practice will serve them well as learners now and as adults,” said King.
Students meet for two hours a week under the guidance of Darleen Munson, a Washington State University Extension 4-H educator.
“The 4-H curriculum uses math, problem solving, programming, creativity, and different strategies to help students solve robotic challenges,” said Munson. “Often it gives students their first look at the fields of engineering, computer programming, and other high tech jobs they may work in.”
Posted March 2010
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