Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy

Use educational affordances of robotics to create CS-STEM opportunities for all learners

Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy  ›  Research  ›  Robots in Motion

Robots in Motion

The Robots in Motion (RIM) project is a collaborative initiative between Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Academy and the University of Pittsburgh’s Learning Research and Development Center. Building upon the foundational Robot Algebra Project, RIM aims to enhance robotics education by embedding mathematical concepts, particularly proportional reasoning, into project-based learning activities.

Objectives:

  • Curriculum Development: Design and refine instructional units that leverage robotics to improve students’ algebraic reasoning skills.

  • Educator Support: Create materials that are instructive for both educators and students, facilitating effective teaching and learning experiences.

  • Evaluation: Assess the effectiveness of the instructional units and support materials in achieving the desired educational outcomes.

  • Policy Insight: Investigate how educational policies and organizational structures influence instruction and learning outcomes in STEM education.

Instructional Units:

  1. B-U-G (Build, Understand, Go): Students develop testing methodologies to ensure robots move accurately, focusing on measurement and calibration.

  2. Asteroid 2012 JN4: Students program a robot to navigate an asteroid with limited power, emphasizing direct proportional relationships and efficient programming strategies.

  3. Bots-in-Sync: Students program robots with varying physical characteristics to perform synchronized movements, exploring indirect proportionality and coordination.

Implementation and Testing:
In 2012, teacher support materials were developed and integrated into LEGO NXT training programs. Subsequent testing in ten regional middle schools provided data to inform curriculum improvements. The project emphasizes the importance of certified professional development for educators to effectively implement the RIM curriculum.