Beebot and Dash

We were taught how to programme robots by using the Dash App and the Dash robot. We were shown how to use a basic Algorithm (instructions).

Beebot

During this activity we were asked to programme the robot manually by pressing the command buttons upon the ‘bug’s’ back. This ‘algorithm’ was produced by measuring out how far the robot went in one step. For example, the robot was able to travel 15cm with one press of the button . Devising a scale  (1 step = 15cm) made creating a route for the robot to travel in more manageable. This is the simple algorithm we produced:

The video clip below demonstrates the algorithm in action:

Dash

By designing simple ‘Algorithms’ that contain variables, sequence and selection, including understanding of logical operations. We were shown how to use an App called Blockly, which enabled us to programme the robot using step-by-step instructions ‘blocks’ that allows the user to create a sequence (Algorithm) or change the sequence by ‘debugging’ (removing instruction).

We were asked to programme the robot to travel in a triangle. We worked out that in order to do this that we would need to include  and understand certain maths equations; at this point we were able to relate our programming sequence to algebra by likening some of the steps used. This emphasised the learning that is encouraged in a classroom environment, when children are asked to relate the topic in hand to everyday life situations.