| With the iRobot Coding Platform, students can progress through various levels of programming—from graphical blocks to text coding—until they’ve mastered them all. 1. Students can use the iRobot Coding platform to program the virtual Root avatar or an actual Root Robot. |
The Root Robot from iRobot Education is among the most versatile educational robotics tools. With three levels of coding and something for everyone from pre-readers to veteran programmers in its iRobot Coding platform, educators can leverage impactful STEM projects, incorporate new coding concepts, and help students with their CS development. Starting in the early grades (as early as kindergarten), students can use the graphical blocks in the iRobot Coding platform to explore basic programming concepts. Since they can easily identify each block's function and add and remove them from programs with drag-and-drop functionality, it makes a great introduction to coding for beginners.
The rest of the iRobot Code platform.
In the hybrid level (Level 2), students can use code blocks that are mixtures of icon-based coding and text coding. They're still building programs with blocks—only now, the blocks display their value with written words. Then, in the third and final level, the blocks display text commands so students can see what it would look like if they typed the code themselves. Also, if you don't have a physical Root Robot in the classroom, the iRobot Coding platform is still for you. It has a built-in Root simbot, allowing anyone to try their hand at coding the on-screen avatar. The virtual coding environment displays right in the iRobot Coding platform, providing an in-depth 3D view of the virtual Root. Then, once they create a program for it, students can follow along as it moves on the screen just like they would in the classroom.
Using the three levels of coding, students can control the robot's movements, lights, and sounds while building computer science fluencies in the classroom. In each level, they're introduced to new coding concepts that help them expand both their knowledge and comfortability. Each level progresses in difficulty, creating a scaffolded learning environment that empowers students to take control and learn about computer science elements like events, commands, setters, flow, math, and logic as they progress. Students can access the iRobot Coding platform through their browser and we'd definitely suggest exploring the environment when you can.
Root Robot lessons and device compatibility.
Previously, coding with Root was only possible using iOS devices, which limited its use a bit. Now, however, students can use the iRobot Coding platform across devices, including Android, Chrome OS, Windows, iOS, and macOS. This is enormously helpful in schools with mixed devices and especially when trying to support students and teachers who have different comfort levels with technology as well as different coding experience levels. No software download is required and you can access the platform directly from the web. All you have to do is make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi and you're ready to start coding with the Root.
The iRobot Coding platform is super easy thanks to the iRobot Learning Library. It's home to hours of Root programming activities for both online and unplugged coding. Currently, there are over 50 activities educators can filter by subject area and grade level. They're aligned to CSTA standards and supported by lesson plans and videos. To access the premium content, however, you'll need a subscription to Root Academy. This comes with the Root Classroom Packs (for one year) and there's also the option to purchase a standalone subscription. Students can even switch between coding levels at any time and see how their code translates in the different environments.
Trying the iRobot Coding platform in the classroom.
Whether you’re already using the Root Robot with the iRobot Coding platform or you're looking for insight into whether it's right for your students, we hope this gave you some helpful tips for moving forward! You can find the Root Robotics line, including the individual robot, classroom packs, accessories, and subscriptions on our store (below). Besides the original Root Robot, we offer the Root rt0 in a couple of different bundles as well. If you have any questions or would like to make a purchase, please let us know. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter as well for more EdTech Tips & Tricks!
