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LEGO Robotics Applying Engineering into the Curriculum

LEGO Robotics Applying Engineering into the Curriculum. Malli Travis Dunbar College Prep Academy mtravis@lubbockisd.org Summer 2012. " “We now know a thousand ways not to build a light bulb”. Thomas Edison. So...what is a robot?. Is it....?. Or....?. Why LEGO?.

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LEGO Robotics Applying Engineering into the Curriculum

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  1. LEGO RoboticsApplying Engineering into the Curriculum Malli Travis Dunbar College Prep Academy mtravis@lubbockisd.org Summer 2012

  2. "“We now know a thousand ways not to build a light bulb” Thomas Edison

  3. So...what is a robot?

  4. Is it....?

  5. Or....?

  6. Why LEGO? • They are relatively inexpensive. • They are indestructible…most of the time! • They are easy to use and do not require many additional or dangerous tools. • They are already familiar to students and easy for them to manipulate. • They allow for quick improvements to be made to designs. • They are fun!

  7. Why Robotics? Tell me and I forget. Show me and I remember. Involve me and I understand.

  8. Develops an interest in math, science and technology • Extends reading, writing and presentation skills • Provides a glimpse to future careers

  9. Allows for thinking through problems with analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and critical thinking • Prepares students for a competitive workforce • Provides a “natural hook” for students to become engaged and interested in their learning.

  10. Points to consider before creating a lesson • Structures – pre-made plan vs. free build • Functions – moving forward, moving backwards, turning • Sensors • Additional programming skills • Teams or individuals • Engineering design process • Project Based Learning

  11. The Panther Program • 6th grade elective class working on RCX • 7th and 8th grade elective class working on NXT • 8th graders enter into advanced engineering elective or participate in after school activities

  12. The Panther Program • Each year the class is centered around a theme: Mars, oceans, GEAR challenge • 2-3 students per kit • Students keep journals in composition notebooks • Focus on presentation skills – writing and verbal

  13. The Panther Program • Mentorship with Texas Tech students • I Beat Pete! Challenge • Competitions – GEAR, BEST • Field trips (rocket launch, TAME, Space Center Houston) • NASA Explorer School

  14. Tips of the Trade • Don’t try to do it all in one year. • Set long term goals • Plan simple activities that build in difficulty • Network with other teachers • Trouble shoot projects before class introduction. • Be a learner and have fun!

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