Robots and Mathematics

Robotics and Mathematics


Where does all the maths in the class lead us and where is it used in real life? Robogals,three students from Auckland Unversity present a 2 day robot problem solving workshop at Tamaki College.The goal was to challenge the students with real world problem solving scenarios

The students  have to code and program a robot to complete a obstacle course.This has to be done on a trail and error basis. First they have to program the robot and test the route. Then they have to adjust variables like the angle,speed and time.This is tested again and the robot is reprogrammed with new instructions. Later on sound and changing lights and fancy maneuvers like spinning the robot is added. Students were very engaged and there was real excitement and competitiveness  visible and the student were learning Maths while having a great time. The girls groups won hands down in every class. Simon from 9KRo didn't try to solve the obstacle course ,but saw potential in customizing the robot  to do tricks. Off task but high level thinking and engagement. Tyli Johnson was in her element and I could see a future engineer in the making

A big thank you for the Robogals s for running the workshop and for Lasea for the organizing of the event. Hand on practical work really got  the students engage and  motivated. We as teachers have to look for more opportunities to make this happen.

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