Introduction to Programming VEXcode IQ Blocks Curriculum
By Catherine Porter & Jesse Flot
Just in time for the holidays, we have a gift for you! The Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy is excited to release Introduction to Programming with VEXcode IQ, using the new VEXcode IQ Blocks programming software.
Introduction to Programming with VEXcode IQ Blocks represents a total overhaul of our previous VEX IQ curriculum. Our team went through great efforts to not only convert the lessons you’ve come to know and love, but also to implement new best practices, pacing, and scaffolding that emerge when shifting from ROBOTC Graphical to VEXcode IQ Blocks. Even so, all of the important components are in place to help students reach learning gains in computational thinking, as our earlier research found in the original version.
VEXcode IQ Blocks is coding made easy. You can make your robot do whatever you want with simple drag-and-drop blocks! In our curriculum, you’ll learn the basic techniques of programming in VEXcode IQ Blocks, computational thinking, and problem-solving through our step-by-step direct instruction included with animations and images. Then you will practice, build on, and put those skills to the test by completing “Try It!” activities, mini-challenges, and unit challenges!
Teachers that have used the Introduction to Programming VEX IQ curriculum in the past with the ROBOTC programming software will find the same level of quality and support they have come to expect, along with some new innovations in an instructional style that allow students to more easily make progress at their own pace.
To go with these curriculum updates, we’ve also fully overhauled our VEX IQ Professional Development to align to VEXcode IQ Blocks. Catch up with the new VEXcode IQ Blocks programming software and teaching practices from the comfort of your home, and at your own pace, by enrolling in our online professional development course! Whether you are a formal education teacher, an informal education facilitator, or a competition coach, we promise this course will teach you how to reach the most valuable and transferable learning outcomes with your students.