Introduction to Coding and Robotics

What is Coding?

  • Definition: Coding is instructing a computer to execute specific tasks.

  • Different programming languages exist, similar to human languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++).

The Building Blocks of Code

  • Definitions:

    • Commands: The smallest units of code, akin to building blocks.

    • Variables: Act as containers that hold information.

    • Sequences: Arrangements of commands and variables designed to execute a task.

    • Loops: Repeat code sections until a specific condition is met (like traffic roundabouts).

    • Conditionals: Direct code flow based on criteria (similar to traffic lights).

    • Algorithms: Recipes for organising sequences to solve problems.

    • Programs: combine multiple algorithms to create complex tasks (like building a city).

    • Debugging: Process of fixing code errors, compared to detective work. Problem Solving involves logical reasoning and creativity to address challenges, essential in coding and robotics.

Shaping Tomorrow – Robotics

  • Definition: Engineering field that creates machines performing automated tasks.

  • Sensing and Actuating: Robots use these to interact with their environment.

The Craft of Creation – Robotics Design Principles

  • Purpose: What is the purpose of the robot and what should we include in the design to help the robot carry out this purpose?

  • Function: how can we make the robot functional, e.g. correct size, correct dimensions, can stand on its own, appropriate weight distribution, etc.

Different Ways to Teach Coding and Robotics

  1. Project-Based Learning (PBL): projects such as in the mission guides

  2. Flipped Classroom: give the learners a task, they go home and research it then they have to explain to the teacher how they would solve that particular problem.

  3. Peer Learning: ask students to explain to each other as they use language & examples relevant to one another.

  4. Gamification: a reward for an action taken.

  5. Differentiated Instruction: give the lesson in verbal form, presentation form, video form, worksheet form, etc.

  6. Formative Assessment: continuously assess learners. Can be Give a real-life example in tech.

Cubroid Trouble Shooting Hacks

  • If the blocks are struggling to connect, try the following troubleshooting methods:

    1. Check that the bluetooth AND location on the device are on.

    2. Check that the group number on the app is set.

    3. Check that the block is fully charged.

    4. Check if the block's firmware is updated.

    5. Change the group number in the Cubroid manager app to 0 and then change it back to its original group number.

  • Try all of the above steps and if the blocks still don’t connect, then please contact me.

Here are what the different colours on the blocks represent when charging:

  • Red = Recharge,

  • Green = Good to go,

  • Blue = Battery full,

  • Light dimming on & off = preserving battery/idle mode.

Cubroid LED Block & Master Block

Role of the LED & Master Block

  • Communication

  • Notification

What to consider when building a robot

  • What would you like to communicate?

  • How does it translate into symbols?

  • How do we program this code?

  • Provide an example.

Cubroid Sound Block 

Purpose of the Sound block

  • Notification

Role of the Sound block

  • The role of the sound block is to emit basic noises once coded, providing auditory feedback or signals within a programmed system or environment. 

Cubroid DC Motor Block 

Purpose of the DC Motor block

  • Motion

Role of the DC Motor block

  • The role of the DC motor/s is to actuate movement in response to a coded command to adjust the position, speed and direction of the robot.

Cubroid Proximity Sensor Block

Purpose of the Proximity Sensor Block

  • Detection

Role of the Proximity Sensor Block

  • The role of the proximity sensor is to detect the presence or absence of objects or individuals within its range, providing essential data for various applications such as monitoring, tracking, and interaction.

Cubroid Light & Touch Sensor Block

Purpose of the Light & Touch Sensor Block

  • Detection

Role of the Light & Touch Block

  • The role of the light and touch sensor is to detect changes in light intensity and detect physical touch inputs, enabling interactive and responsive behavior in various applications.