Advanced Robotics Demystified in 4 Steps

In the age of artificial intelligence (AI), teachers can use educational robotics to teach kids how to design, build and program robots while allowing them to see and interpret the results of their build and program in real time.

More so, building and programming robots can help learners improve vital computer science (CS) and life skills, such as computational thinking, coding, literacy, physical science, mathematics, healthy competitiveness, teamwork and perseverance.

Learning robotics and AI can also provide students needed context to understand the use of robots in more authentic contexts and industries, such as enterprise, space exploration, manufacturing, and military missions. Evolving AI even makes it possible for intelligent robots to interact with humans in their lives and homes by assisting with household chores, providing security, companionship and entertainment.

Unfortunately, in-depth learning of advanced robotics isn't always accessible to all students, and often when it is, the necessary rigor is not always applied to lessons. That means students are getting only part of the learning, not the complete picture of the interdisciplinary and integrative nature of mechatronics — the intersection between electrical and mechanical engineering and CS.

For teachers wishing to make engineering accessible and engaging for novice and experienced high school students, I recommend using the VEX V5 by VEX Robotics. A warning: Learning to use the V5 effectively will take time! But any learner can become an expert through concentrated and consistent practice. 

In a previous coaching experience, I used the following four-step framework to teach robotics, and this is how I recommend teachers proceed with students. 

Note: My example below uses the VEX V5 robotics system to build a clawbot. However, these steps are universal to robot building and programming. Teachers using other tools can follow along but will need to implement another design activity.