When it comes to integrating new EdTech tools effectively, it's understandable that some teachers are hesitant. In our Tips & Tricks series, we aim to help simplify integration for teachers new to certain tools. Since we offer a wide variety of STEM solutions on our store, both the EdTech brands and products that appear in this series are each extensive. Whether you are looking to learn more strategies for teaching coding with the Bee–Bot, trying to find some troubleshooting tips for the Dash Robot, or simply trying to broaden your EdTech horizons, we're confident you'll find some useful content here. Most of these guides feature simplistic language and easy-to-understand breakdowns as well. From start to finish, educators, technologists, administrators, and librarians can learn about optimizing these tools in their unique educational environment.
Also, no product lines or STEAM disciplines are off the table. As you might know, our store has hundreds of EdTech and maker solutions—from simple to complex. Starting in the early grades, we know educators need guidance. That often does not change for those teaching at the high school level. So, you may find Tips & Tricks for the simplest of technologies, like the Cubetto Robot. You may also benefit from learning about integrating 3D printing projects in high school classes using MakerBot CloudPrint. Our expertise and relationships with professionals from many of today's best EdTech manufacturers have helped us identify the key elements teachers are wondering about and present them with easy-to-find hints in a concise way. We are always adding new content and updating these posts as well. So, check back every other Wednesday for the latest edition of our Tips & Tricks series.
The Robo Wunderkind line allows early education students to get hands-on with building and programming robots. Designed for kids as young as five years old, each of the three kits feature constructible components for building robots. Once they build the robot they want, kids can program them using one of three mobile apps.
One important feature of note is that the RVR is all-terrain. Unlike its spherical predecessors, the RVR is shaped like a car and has treads, torque, and a precision control system to help it tackle the most uneven of surfaces. Besides that, the RVR is compatible with third-party hardware and programmable using the Sphero Edu app!
With the 3Doodler Build & Play, inventing is much more accessible for even the youngest children. Its own take on 3Doodler’s classic 3D printing pens, the Build & Play is a simplified machine that kids as young as four can use for creating three-dimensional objects in almost any learning environment. So, head inside to learn about using it with Pre-K
The littleBits STEAM+ Class Pack supports up to 30 students with screen-free activities, purposefully selected Bits, and cross-curricular lessons. It includes tons of Bits and 10 carrying cases to help educators maximize STEAM learning and facilitate student creativity in any educational environment.
To use their littleBits micro:bit Adapter, kids will need a micro:bit V2, which are available on our store separately. The micro:bit board slides easily into the slot on the top of their micro:bit Adapter and fastens securely, allowing students to incorporate MakeCode programs in littleBits circuits. Read on to learn more about this valuable STEAM and CS accessory.
Finding engaging and academically stimulating solutions for students regardless of where they’re learning has become a priority for some and that’s certainly something we can support. In this week’s Tips & Tricks blog, we’re taking a look at two Tech Will Save Us kits that can be leveraged in hybrid learning in the Electro Dough and Gamer kits.
With so much data filling our world—and the immediate environments around us—it can be hard to conceptualize just how much there is to explore. With the databot, students can do just that. This tiny cube fits in the palms of their hands and helps them explore the hidden world of data in an incredibly powerful way using a dozen on-board
The GiggleBot is the main piece of this micro:bit-powered robot and construction kit. It boasts a variety of programmable features, including a brightness sensor, LEDs, motors, and a line following device. It can be assembled in as little as five minutes and includes everything you need—you just connect the batteries, micro:bit, and wheels to get started!
The BOLT Power Pack was adapted from the SPRK+ Power Pack except it now supports charging the Sphero BOLT. It holds 15 BOLTs and is available as an all-inclusive set with robots and accessories (charging cradles/cables, protractors, turbo covers, maze tape rolls, and stickers) and also as an empty pack for those who already have BOLT robots.
MakeDo is loved by many and serves as an easy-to-use STEAM tool in and out of the classroom. It is a collection of construction tools, including screws, screwdrivers, and a saw, that students can use for building with cardboard. They’re totally reusable, which often inspires and educates students on the importance of reusing and upcycling while creating.
