Coding and Robotics

Coding and Robotics sounds intimidating, but it can be easily integrated across all content areas. One of the most important things to do when introducing coding is to allow students some time to play and get familiar with the coding materials before jumping into the lesson. This allows students to be more focused when the lesson starts because their curiosity has been satisfied. Coding also includes many of the elements of STEAM. There are many free coding resources available. Other resources, such as BeeBots, can be purchased online. Beebots are small robots that students can code to follow patterns. They can be seamlessly implemented into literacy, science, math, and social studies. In literacy, students can use coding and Beebots to retell a story using sequence of events or show letter-sound correspondence. In math, Beebots can be used to demonstrate add/subtraction or multiplication/division. In science, students can code Beebots to show the life cycle of the butterfly, and can be used to show location on a map in Social Studies. Coding and robotics are essential skills that students will need for jobs of the future. Coding and robotics teach students to think critically, problem solve, be creative, and work as a team.

            I was so impressed when I learned that many Pre-K and Kindergarten students are proficient in coding. These students are using coding to identify colors, shapes, letters, and numbers. By starting coding and robotics at a young age it has a hand in preventing gender roles from being assigned. It shows that girls can enjoy science, engineering, and programming. Coding and Robotics also prepares students for failure, it teaches them the process of trial and error. It is the teachers job to normalize less than perfect outcomes so that students can begin to learn from their mistakes.

            Coding is also an excellent differentiation strategy for gifted learners. Students could be allowed to take what they have learned and design a grid along with coding instructions to represent their learning. I cannot wait to use coding and robotics in my future classroom. There is a way to make coding and robotics fit every age and content area.