Andy Larmand

Like the original databot Robot, the databot 2.0 is square in shape but it is not a perfect cube unlike that original model. The newer databot is shorter in height, making it a much more compact robotics tool. More importantly, it’s also outfitted with 16 powerful on-board sensors that students can use to measure anything from light levels to air

Students have dealt with a slew of varying emotions and all-new stressors since learning went remote amid the pandemic and plenty are still working back from that. Infusing MakerEd tools into new types of instruction is one solution that could help children restore some of that emotional balance so they can keep learning, express ideas, and share feelings comfortably.

Educational leaders and school librarians routinely team up on repurposing traditional library rooms into versatile, multi-purpose facilities. There are so many benefits to this but it’s often largely tied to the importance of STEAM education and popularity of various makerspace kits. So, this week, we are exploring some top STEM supplies that also double as library supplies.

Robotics tools, in particular, are very valuable in K–12 classrooms because of the various sets of skills children can gain when coding with them. Most notably, teachers could introduce a variety of programming languages, like Scratch, Blockly, JavaScript, Swift, Python, and others—helping kids build a foundation for both their creative and technological development.

When using the SAM Labs kits in your classroom, the wireless setup helps make everything easier to integrate. With the SAM Labs projects, students can apply logic, reasoning, design thinking, and computational thinking as they build inventions and, not only are they great for coding in elementary school, each kit is also great for makerspaces and afterschool activities.

In the webinar, we joined RobotLAB’s VP of Business Development, Cedric Vaudel, who guided the audience through a demo of using RobotLAB’s VR systems, content, and hardware. He began with explaining how their team utilized feedback from educators for designing this final product, including some very specific, education-focused upgrades. Watch the replay inside!

STEM learning experiences can be truly powerful and can help shape how children develop their 21st century skills. And, now, EdTech manufacturers regularly supplement their products with full curriculum resources that may include the lesson plans, activities, and more. Designed so all teachers can lead lessons more effectively, STEM curricula can really enhance learning.

You might hear this a lot, but almost every school makerspace may feature unique learning and building materials. Because makerspaces are found all throughout the K–12 grades (and even college), an elementary makerspace will often look a whole lot different than one you’ll see in a high school. So, using the right supplies at the right times makes a significant

AR and VR both unlock unique angles for learning that, along with effective integration, can enhance student learning experiences. They can also bring concepts to life with stunning visual displays and, once these physical and digital worlds intersect, students can gain context that supports instruction and even potentially reaches them on more of an emotional level.

While other pandemic-induced issues, like inequity, isolation, relationships, and SEL have been crucial focal areas, the effects of too much screen time on their daily development have also caught up with many students. As we continue to hone in on student mental health concerns, it’s often important for parents and educators to keep digital wellbeing in focus for kids.