Though our society is increasing their reliance and dependence on technology/programming, only 1 in 10 schools are actually actively teaching children how to code.

Robots can bridge this gap by bringing introductory languages as well as a fun way to get children interested in coding. STEM robots infuse coding with the traditional toy aspect, allowing kids to not only have fun but also be exposed to a necessary skill that will reward them in the heavily technological global market of the future.

Makeblock’s STEM robot kits infuse education and play into one object, allowing children to enjoy learning. With these robots, they are able to learn concepts through trial and error, application, and hands-on experiences, ensuring that they firmly grasp what they are dealing with. Children do all this while letting their curiosity drive them, creating a “painless” path into the field of engineering and technology where they are motivated to learn.

With Makeblock, learning isn’t “forced”. Rather, it is seen as a fun challenge!

4 Reasons to Include Robotics in Early STEM Education

1. Offers an Effective Introduction into STEM Robot Programming

Learning STEM robot coding through a computer can be too abstract for children to comprehend. Robots offer a better alternative to this. Through using robots, children are able to visualize how a real life object reacts to what they are coding, physically see their failures and successes in front of them. With MakeBlock’s mBot powered by mBlock software, users are able to see their coding come to life easier than ever before. With color coded pieces, an easy-to-follow instruction manual, and straightforward assembly, mBot allows your creativity to run free without the worry of technical difficulties. Equally useful, the mBlock application  is engineered to provide an introductory coding experience that uses graphical indications to make sure anyone can pick it up in a matter of minutes. Through products like these, robots now are allowing children to easily interact with the fields of engineering and technology at a very young age.

2. Increase Creativity

When dealing with engineering and technology at school, most curriculums only include theoretical learning because applications of these fields are usually larger scale and/or expensive. However, robotics offers students a way to create something with their STEM knowledge at an affordable price. STEM robots like the DIY Platform from MakeBlock, provide students with the tools they need to exercise their creativity to unlimited bounds in design and construction. The DIY Platform features over 300 multi-compatible mechanical parts and over 100 electronic modules, giving you the power to create whatever your imagination desires. So what will you invent next?

 3. Promotes Inclusivity

Robots are great in being easily accessible to a wide range of students. In particular, they have proven to be very effective in engaging autistic children. Things like eye contact, communication, and patience are all things that autistic children face when interacting with other humans. However, STEM robots offer a sense of comfort to these children through many of its characteristics. Take, for example, Codey Rocky, your favorite robot companion. Equipped with AI-functionality and an LED display used for communication, Codey Rocky allows autistic children to interact with it in a more personalized way, similar to interaction with other humans. However, unlike humans, robots are extremely predictable and have infinite patience making autistic children feel comfortable when working with them. Through robotics, autistic children are able to integrate into society more easily than before.

4. Prepares Students for the Future

Studies show that in the next decade, STEM jobs are projected to grow 17 percent. And with this rapid growth in STEM jobs, more workers will be demanded in this field. Not only does this mean more job security, but STEM jobs also have significantly higher salaries than the average job. Getting students interested in STEM fields early on can lead to interest in possible careers later on in their future. Not only will this be great for the economy but more students will be successful as well.

mBlock is designed to help create this surge in new young STEM talent. As mentioned above, students are able to start with block-based programming for easy, intuitive coding. But mBlock is also developed to help kids transition into higher levels of coding as well. With the basic coding language, Python, fully integrated into the coding application as well, users can gradually start switching the language they work in when they feel they are ready, taking their coding skill to the next level.

Sign up to receive the latest news about Makeblock directly in your inbox

…..Click here to see more stories about Makeblock and You