SmartBots

SmartBots is an extension program for talented grade 5-8 students. Working in small teams, students will use LEGO MINDSTORMS robotics kits and accompanying software to work through a series of skill building activities and challenges.

Each week there will be an activity, usually based on a specific challenge. Initially there will also be guided tutorials, designed to develop skills and understandings related to robotics. These will be framed in terms of specific challenges that will increase in complexity over the weeks of the program. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss ideas and showcase their work with others in the program.

Schools may enrol up to two teams in the SmartBots program, with either two or three students per team plus a reserve. The enrolment form is set up so students are enrolled in their teams. LEGO robotics kits are available for loan to schools at a ratio of 1 kit per team, although schools are welcome to make use of existing kits owned by the school.

Students participating in SmartBots will need a minimum of two hours per week to design, build and program their robots, access course materials and communicate with the online delivery teacher. Most students will want to spend significantly more time than this working on their robots, so students would benefit from increased access at school, for example at lunch time.

Participating schools are required to provide someone (e.g. teacher, assistant, parent, etc.) to support the participating students as they work through the program. A full-day workshop will be held prior to the commencement of the online program to provide an opportunity for support people to become familiar with the kits, software, and course materials that the students will be using.

SmartBots brochure [PDF 457KB]

For further information, contact Angela Cooke ph (03) 6233 5082, email angela.cooke@education.tas.gov.au