Breaking BAD: Robotics Style

no more Boredom, Apathy or

DisengagementKim D’Annunzio, Robotics and Knowledge Forum Teacher, Kennedy Metro Middle

School And

Steve Swan, Technology Professor, University of Louisville

What are Alternative Schools and why do they

exist?

What offenses cause students to

be “invited” to Kennedy Metro?

Boredom: Tired of the worldUninterested because of difficulty understanding and frustration

ApathyState of indifferenceCan exhibit insensitivity

Disengagement:To detach the mind from study

Starting a new program. . . .new beliefs:

Maximum of 3-5 minute explanationsStudents move at own paceUse different modalities so students become intrinsically motivated and learn to love learningTeacher is NOT the expert. . . Only the guide

Begin with the end in mind.Student outcomes:

(CHETL Technology Standards)

Responsible for own learningAuthentically engagedSelf-assess/self-correctMove at own paceWork respectfully with peersBe reflective and intentional about learningDevelop a vocabulary regarding math and robotics and how it relates to real life

Vocabulary (Kentucky Core Academic Standards, KCAS)

Concepts:Customary/metric measurementGeometryRedefining the meaning of ONEBoolean LogicMindstorms programming languageAccuracySpatial planning

More specific information included in handout.

Introduction to Programming:

We need a volunteer to join us! (Don’t worry, the rest of you will have a job to do as well!)

Characteristics of Successful Programmers

P roblem Solvingerseveranceatience

Equipment

• One desk per student• Cart for computers• 16 mini notes/ 9 laptops• 18 robots / usb connectors• Various robot sensors and spare pieces• SMARTboard• “gym floor tape”–d challenges on floor• Various posters/directions/vocabulary

posted on walls

Academic makeup of classes:

Let’s Play!

Debrief Questions

What is something you learned in class today? What is something you want to learn? What was hard for you today? What was easy for you today? What did you need help with today? Share something that gave you a sense of

accomplishment. What was frustrating today? Other???