Summer SAVY, Session 5 Day 4, Programming and Robotics (3rd-4th)
As a
community, we discussed time management as not only a life skill but also a group skill. We talked about ways to break up big projects and why having clearly defined roles and tasks is important, making sure there are checkpoints along the way, and when to ask for help. We also explored how to handle a project when everyone is interested in the same kind of work, or worse, there are tasks no one wants to complete. We talked about how compromise can help sort out the work and build consensus. These strategies were certainly put to the test today!
We learned about biomechanical engineering and created two grabber devices. We then tested each with objects of various sizes, weights, densities, and textures and recorded our data to objectively compare and contrast. We learned the rigid claw worked better on heavier, dense objects, but struggled with lighter, less dense objects.
Next, each team was challenged to plan, build, program, test, and iterate a prosthesis using the engineering design process. Workgroups were asked to create a client, assign that client a profession, and make a list of tasks they may need to perform. Then they set to work making design changes applying what they learned throughout the week. We had some clever projects to help a mechanic, pizza chef, musician, detective, builder, beekeeper, barber, and burger chef.
Dinner table questions: We learned about prosthetic devices. How long does it take to fully master a prosthesis? How are 3D printers changing the game, especially for children? If they had time to make one more improvement, what would that have been?
Finally, most of the students have asked me to direct you to the Spike Prime kit available from the LEGO store (see below). Access to the programming app is free and can be used on Apple devices, PCs, or Chromebooks.
LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime Set 45678 | LEGO® Education | Buy online at the Official LEGO® Shop US