Today we were introduced to tiny little robots called Ozobots. These little robots help young students to learn the basics about coding. This experience was an absolute riot and I was super engaged for the entire time I was trying to make my little Ozobot perform the task I had asked it to do. Through a series or combination of the colours red, black, green or blue, I was able to make my Ozobot move forwards, turn left or right, spin around or go turbo speed. This kind of technology is a great way to introduce learners to coding and help them make the connection that by giving a computer a set of “codes” they can make the computer perform certain operations. There is a plethora of activities students could engage in while using their Ozobots. I love the idea of creating story boards and using their Ozobots to help tell the story. I also love the idea of giving students mazes and having them navigate their Ozobot through the maze. This is a fun, highly engaging piece of education technology that I hope to be able to integrate into my class some day.
Jordan Hall
I loved this session! Those little bots were the best things ever. I was worried at first that I was going to be unable to get my little one to move but low and behold I was able to make him go up, down, sideways and spin! This feeling of excitement and accomplishment as an adult was huge and I can only image what students feel! I completely agree with all of your points above and another thing I thought of regarding these robots is that they also promote a component of ownership and responsibility. These learners know that these bots are their responsibility and they are to take care of them. I love that this piece of ownership is also explored sub consciously through play and coding!
ashlie.cook
I loved the ozobots! All I can think is if we were that engaged and excited about this activity around coding as adults, how do you think our students would react?! Coding is something that makes a lot of people, including myself very nervous. This activity helped ease that anxiety and allowed me to explore, create and have fun. I can’t help but smile when I read about all the things you got your bot to do because I too got enjoyment doing these things with my ozobots!