Teaching STEM using Low Cost Robots
Postponed to be rescheduled for a later date
This is an excellent time to consider using robots to get students engaged and motivated to learn STEM concepts. A wide variety of educational robots, some of which can be purchased at relatively low cost, are now available in the market. This workshop will provide educators with an opportunity to learn how to use robots to actively engage students in learning math and science concepts. During the workshop, participants will learn how to build and program robots and discuss ways to embed activities using robots in their lesson plans. Participants will learn which math, science, and technology concepts will be suitable for incorporating the use and design of robots and how such lessons will align with the PA Core Standards for each grade level.
Schedule (Subject to change)
9:00 - Welcome and Overview
9:15 - Participants work on projects
10:00 - Open discussion of activity
10:30 - Connecting activities to standards
11:15 - Break
11:30 - Case Studies: Incorporating robots in elementary and high school classrooms
12:15 - Lunch
1:00 - Participants work on group projects
2:00 - Discussion of activity
2:30 - Next steps
3:00 - Wrap up
- Michael Robinson is a Ph.D. student in Mechanical Engineering at Penn State. His research area focuses on ways to make self-driving cars avoid accidents. Michael loves to make things and is fortunate enough to be able to do what he loves. he also teaches a middle school class three times per week where he focuses on helping students come up with creative ideas and to turn those ideas into something real.
- Dr. Mahsa Kazempour is an Associate Professor of Science Education at Penn State Berks. Previously, she held a similar position at Fairfield University (CT). She teaches SCIED458 (Science Methods for Elementary Education Majors), BiSC3 (Environmental Science), and First Year Seminar. Her research focuses on the professional development of both prospective and in-service teachers and ways to improve K-16 science instruction.
- Curt Minich is a high school AP computer science teacher with over 20 years experience at Wyomissing Area High School and over 15 years experience as an adjunct instructor at Penn State Berks. He teaches introductory and advanced courses that focus on programming languages, problem-solving, application development, and general logic. His special passion is encouraging students of all ages to tap into their natural enthusiasm for technology as they design apps and robotics projects that reflect creativity and solve practical problems.
Participants will learn how to use components to make low cost but very sophisticated robots for about $100. For an example of this type of robot, view this video:
http://lowcostrobotics.wordpress.com/
In addition, participants will learn about the Finch robots which are designed to support an engaging introduction to the art of programming. To learn more about these robots visit:
For more information contact Continuing Education at 610-396-6220.