Robotics simulation software lets student code a virtual robot
When used with the company’s TETRIX MAX robotics building system, the TETRIX Virtual Robotics (VR) simulation software, powered by in-browser physics platform Robotify, gives students the option to code virtually and then test their code on a real robot. The solution, says the company, is ideal for any flexible learning environment.
The simulation software and TETRIX hardware can be used separately or in combination, enabling learners to function like real-world engineers, creating and operating digital and physical solutions. The platform includes 15 real-world activities, each of which includes a series of progressive tasks and concludes with an open-ended challenge:
- Activities 1-5: Assistive robots are used to digitally introduce the controller, motors, and sensors.
- Activity 6: Students build a physical TETRIX robot. (Set Option 1, Set Option 2)
- Activities 7-10: Domestic robots are used to develop systems thinking.
- Activities 11-15: Focusing on safety and security robots, learners use sensors to explore advanced programming.
The 15 activities include a total of 22.5 hours of content, equally split between digital and physical robot activities. Each activity includes step-by-step coding instructions and delivers real-time feedback. Best of all, says the company, even coding novices can complete the engaging activities.
“No coding experience is required as we provide complete step-by-step instructions,” says Pitsco Curriculum Specialist Aaron Locke, who authored the activities. “We explain not only what to code but also how to code – debugging, writing clean code, all the best practices of coding.”
Each activity includes:
- Lesson overview
- Real-world connections
- Learning objectives
- Coding concepts
- Pacing guide
- Correlations to Computer Science Teachers Association standards
- Goals, teaching points, discussion questions, and sample solution code
Plus, built-in learning management tools enable teachers to:
- Organize classes and add, remove, or change teacher and student info.
- Track students’ progress through an adaptive learning environment.
- Manage, assign, and assess individual student tasks.
- View student data analytics and usage reports.
- Sync with Google Classroom or Clever.
The digital-only learning experience featuring just the online simulation tool is available on Chromebook, Windows, and Mac, iPad OS, and Android tablets.
