Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy

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

VEX Robotics

VEX robots help students unlock the power of their imagination by designing and constructing remote-controlled robotic devices that can lift, throw, climb, gather and expand the boundaries of experimental intelligence. The system gives young people a fun, new way to learn about STEM subjects. By working together to create robots that perform exciting challenges, they also gain valuable problem-solving and team-building skills.

Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy VEX Robotics Curriculum >

1. Decide what it is that you want to teach using robotics

2. Choose a robot platform that is right for your instructional goals –
(Are you building a multi-year program or an introductory program? Are you going to engage your students in competitions? Does the robot platform choice need to grow with your instructional goals?)

3. Select a programming software that aligns with your instructional goals

4. Develop a curriculum continuum that makes sense for your schools learning objectives

5. Develop a professional development plan that will support high-quality instruction for all students

6. Order kits, software, curriculum, and storage solutions – (Planning for storing your robots is important!)

7. Schedule training – (This can be self-paced via an online training course, or face to face training)

8. Dedicate time to practice building and programming with the new technology

9. Prepare lesson plans – (Comprehensive lesson plans are included in the Carnegie Mellon curriculum)