Orange Tart is your family’s newest friend, as it equally attracts girls and boys, kids, and adults. In fact, Orange Tart is a Lego-compatible robot kit that enables you to build amazing striker, chipper, header, and goalkeeper robots. You can’t stop playing with them. Just choose your nation or any color combination for team wear. Using a customized joystick app, Tart Arena, and the robots, you can bring all the soccer fun in your hands and enjoy every feature of realistic robotic soccer.
What you can Build
Orange Tart has a special board called Orange Core with a Lego-compatible case. It consists of a built-in gyro sensor, RGB LEDs, and a wireless communication device. Rechargeable battery and powerful motors that can be easily connected to Orange Core. Very convenient for kids. Unleash your creativity by building amazing soccer robots or any creature you can imagine, from insect-like robots to industrial cranes. The only limit is your imagination and physics.
What you can Learn
On the learning side, you don’t need to design your own activities. The orange Tart set comes with many STEAM activities that help your kids learn the 21st century’s essential skills. The set has story-driven challenge cards, a block-based coding language, a STEAM activity mat, and a learn-to-code curriculum book. The challenge cards are step-by-step coding missions that lead your kids on the path to becoming a coder. The block-based coding language works by dragging and dropping the function blocks that use intuitive graphics and are divided into motions, loops, light, and sound. The learn-to-code curriculum book contains hints and suggested solutions for every challenge card. Kids can do trial and error to find solutions for each challenge, which improves their creativity and problem-solving skills. In addition to coding concepts such as algorithms, kids can learn the real-world applications of math, geometry, and AI.
Let your kid’s imagination go limitless, turn the LEDs on, move your robots, and do fascinating light painting photography for any occasion. Don’t forget to share your pictures with your friends!
Kickstarter campaign
For more information on the upcoming Kickstarter campaign please check out Orange Tart page.
CoderZ today announced the winners of the all-new CoderZ League: the Virtual Cyber Robotics Competition (formerly the Cyber Robotics Coding Competition or CRCC). Students in grades four through 12 throughout the United States and the world joined in the cloud-based robotics tournament. Three teams from each of the tournament’s two levels – Junior and Pro – became CoderZ League World Champions.
Beginning coders, schools new to the competition, and students in grades five through eight competed at the CoderZ League Junior level using Blockly. The three CoderZ League World Champion teams were the following:
The Legend Z team from Union High School (Pennsylvania)
The Avenues FLL MG team 1 from Avenues the World School (New York City)
The Method K20 all-girls team from Methodist Girls High School located (Ghana)
The CoderZ League Pro level was for students in grades seven through 12 who could use Blockly or Python. The three CoderZ League World Champion teams were the following:
The Virginia Beach ATC team from Virginia Beach City Public Schools (Virginia)
The Explosion team from School 1329 (Moscow)
The RoboGriffins team from the nonprofit Philadelphia Robotics Coalition (Pennsylvania)
During the tournament missions, students competed on the award-winning CoderZ Cyber Robotics Learning Environment, a cloud-based platform featuring a graphical simulation of LEGO Mindstorms EV3 robots. The students used the virtual 3D robots to complete the tournament challenges or “missions.”
“These six teams outperformed competitors from 18 countries, 29 U.S. states, two Canadian provinces and Puerto Rico,” said Ido Yerushalmi, CEO of CoderZ. “In all, over 150,000 students participated in the CoderZ League; amid the disruption and distress of 2020, all of them dedicated themselves to learning STEM, coding, tech literacy and soft skills like critical thinking and collaboration as they competed. We are so immensely proud of them all.”
Even before the pandemic hit, CoderZ’s successful engagement of students in cyber robotics learning had made its virtual coding tournaments an international phenomenon. In 2019, the vast majority (98%) of surveyed educators stated that the content delivered by CoderZ League’s predecessor, the CRCC, provided a foothold for computer science and STEM learning. And a whopping 100% reported that their students were engaged. “Our model works for both in-class and remote learning,” said Yerushalmi. “So, no matter where students are, CoderZ makes robotics far more accessible to them now and in the future.”
“Due to the pandemic, we were unable to meet in person and construct a physical robot, so students who wanted to continue growing their robotics skills were given the option of participating in CoderZ,” said physics teacher Sean Martin who served as the team coach for RoboGriffins. The RoboGriffins team formed through the Philadelphia Robotics Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting robotics programs in the city’s public high schools.
Most of the students on the team had previously focused on the mechanical side of robotics. “Students were eager to learn more about coding as it is a crucial component to our usual robotics activities,” Martin explained. “What appealed to us the most about CoderZ was that whatever code you wrote had an instantaneous effect on the robot. There was no waiting for things to compile, and there were no abstract exercises. You wrote a code, and immediately saw what the robot did as a result. The fact that the visual presentation is as appealing as it is certainly helped too.”
The RoboGriffins team took advantage of other CoderZ offerings before writing their world championship code. About 12 students on the team also completed the Amazon Cyber Robotics Challenge. In addition, most of those 12 completed at least three units in either the Cyber Robotics 102 curriculum or the Python Gym course.
“School closures due to COVID-19 were what led to us seeking a virtual platform like CoderZ in the first place,” said Martin. “You allowed us to continue our work of spreading knowledge of robotics in spite of the lockdowns and we are very grateful for it.”
Educators who would like their students to learn or refine their coding skills in a fun, competitive format can still sign them up for the CoderZ League Sprint Challenge, which will run until March 31, 2021.
About CoderZ CoderZ is an innovative and engaging online learning environment. Developed for students in grades 2 and above, the gamified STEM solution allows student to work at their own pace, easily programming real and virtual robots from anywhere in the world. The platform enables students to acquire computational thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills, together with coding and STEM learning, all via a flexible and scalable virtual solution. For more information go to http://www.gocoderz.com.
In response to the postponement of automatica 2020, automatica sprint will premiere in a hybrid format (in-person and online) at the Munich Convention Center from 22-24 June 2021.
This event is a contemporary response to the current pandemic situation hosted by the same organizers of the original automatica, Messe München.
The Robothon® itself will take place on-site at the premises of Messe München to ensure a fair competition and will conclude with an award ceremony on Thursday, 24 June 2021.
Be assured, appropriate hygiene measures will be taken and checked regularly!
On behalf of Messe München, automatica and MSRM/TUM, we would like to renew our invitation to you.
Robothon® – The Grand Challenge Series
This year’s event debuts the first competition of a series to occur every other year at automatica to benchmark and showcase robot performance using state-of-the-art platforms.
QUICK FACTS:
What: Robothon® – The Grand Challenge Series – Debut Competition in Robotic Manipulation:
a 3-day event showcasing robotic manipulation to disassemble and sort electronic waste.
Where: automatica sprint trade show at the Messe München Convention Center in Munich, Germany
When: Tuesday through Thursday 22-24 June 2021
Who: All roboticists (academic and professional) are encouraged to apply
Why: Fame, fun,recognition, networking opportunities and cash prizes await selected teams
COMPETITION DETAILS:
– The competition is open to the public and free of charge for the selected teams
– Up to 20 teams can participate (3-5 members per team)
– Teams will have 3 days to develop a solution to the Grand Challenge 2021 using an event sponsored robot platform or teams can apply to bring their own robotic platform
(please find minimum requirements on our website here)
– Final demonstrations will be evaluated by our Grand Challenge Jury on Thursday at noon prior to the announcement of the winning teams.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE:
– Gather a team of three to five people and prepare your team application
– Indicate your preference our sponsored robot platforms you would like to use and why
– OR describe your own robot setup you would like to bring to the fair
– Submit your application until 23:59 CEST 30 March 2021 here
BATTLEBOTS: BOUNTY HUNTERS’ Premieres Monday, January 4, on the Launch of Discovery’s Streaming Service Discovery+
(LOS ANGELES) – In the BattleBots universe, from the moment you start building a robot, everyone dreams of a chance to fight against the best in the world — the legends that define the sport. Rarely does David get to face Goliath. Until now… BATTLEBOTS: BOUNTY HUNTERS, premiering Monday, January 4 on Discovery+, will bring the top robots from all over America to battle it out against a BattleBots legend in the ultimate robot combat.
In BATTLEBOTS: BOUNTY HUNTERS, the sport has some of the top robot legends including Tombstone, Bronco, Witch Doctor, Son of Whyachi, Beta and Icewave. Each of the them have many knockouts and have smashed countless competitors before them.
In each episode, challengers will compete for the right to become the Bounty Hunter and fight a Legend. The prize: a unique place in BattleBots history, and the major share of a $25,000 cash prize payout in every episode.
Like in the regular season of BattleBots, each episode highlights the design and build of the competing robots and profiles the teams behind them. Competitors come from all types of backgrounds – from families to university students and everything in between. Every machine is homemade and constructed from a variety of materials with custom-built weaponry to destroy the competition.
In addition to watching BATTLEBOTS: BOUNTY HUNTERS on Discovery+, viewers can join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #BattleBots and following Discovery on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Fans can also use the BattleBots AR filter (WT) on Instagram, Facebook, and Snapchat to share which bot the randomizer selects for them.
BATTLEBOTS remains the most popular robotic combat sport in the world, created by Ed Roski and Greg Munson and now seen in over 150 countries. It is produced by BattleBots, Inc. and Whalerock Industries. Executive producers are Chris Cowan, Edward P. Roski (Trey), Greg Munson, Tom Gutteridge and Aaron Catling. For Discovery Channel, Scott Lewers, Joseph Boyle and Wyatt Channell are executive producers and Paola Espinosa is associate producer.
About Discovery Channel
Discovery Channel is dedicated to creating the highest quality non-fiction content that informs and entertains its consumers about the world in all its wonder, diversity and amazement. The network, which is distributed to 88.3 million U.S. homes, can be seen in 224 countries and territories, offering a signature mix of compelling, high-end production values and vivid cinematography across genres including, science and technology, exploration, adventure, history and in-depth, behind-the-scenes glimpses at the people, places and organizations that shape and share our world. For more information, please visit www.discovery.com.
About Discovery
Discovery, Inc. (Nasdaq: DISCA, DISCB, DISCK) is a global leader in real life entertainment, serving a passionate audience of superfans around the world with content that inspires, informs and entertains. Discovery delivers over 8,000 hours of original programming each year and has category leadership across deeply loved content genres around the world. Available in 220 countries and territories and nearly 50 languages, Discovery is a platform innovator, reaching viewers on all screens, including TV Everywhere products such as the GO portfolio of apps; direct-to-consumer streaming services such as Eurosport Player, Food Network Kitchen and MotorTrend OnDemand; digital-first and social content from Group Nine Media; a landmark natural history and factual content partnership with the BBC; and a strategic alliance with PGA TOUR to create the international home of golf. Discovery’s portfolio of premium brands includes Discovery Channel, HGTV, Food Network, TLC, Investigation Discovery, Travel Channel, MotorTrend, Animal Planet, Science Channel, and the forthcoming multi-platform JV with Chip and Joanna Gaines, Magnolia, as well as OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network in the U.S., Discovery Kids in Latin America, and Eurosport, the leading provider of locally relevant, premium sports and Home of the Olympic Games across Europe. For more information, please visit corporate.discovery.com and follow @DiscoveryIncTV across social platforms.
About Whalerock Industries
Whalerock Industries is a West Hollywood-based production and consulting company founded by Lloyd Braun. Its Whalerock Studios produces highly acclaimed and popular unscripted series, including BattleBots (Discovery), Hyperdrive (Netflix), Savage Builds (Discovery), and Ravi Patel’s Pursuit of Happiness (HBO Max). The company’s award-winning team of producers, digital product developers and marketers has created and operated multiple #1 direct-to-consumer apps and web properties with the world’s most influential celebrities and brands. Fans can join in the conversation by following BattleBots Facebook and Instagram.
Golf-loving robot enthusiasts and educators everywhere can now embrace Sphero technology and STEAM learning in a programmable, robotic golf ball.
BOULDER, Colo., September 15, 2020 —Sphero® , the industry leader in edtech programmable robots and STEAM-based educational tools, announced today the latest sports-themed Sphero Mini®,Sphero Mini GolfTM, is now available.
The new Sphero Mini Golf packs a ton of tech and fun into its golf-ball sized frame. Equipped with a gyroscope, accelerometer, and colorful LED lights, this robot is much more advanced than any other ball found on the links — or in the living room.
“Over the years we’ve seen a number of parents, educators, and kids creating golf courses to navigate and learn with their Sphero robots,” says Paul Copioli, Sphero CEO. “Sphero Mini Golf was the perfect, no-brainer addition to our Sphero Mini offerings so these DIY courses can be brought to life and taken to the next level with a realistic, programmable golf ball.”
LEARN THROUGH PLAY
Create a DIY mini golf course out of craft and household materials, then control Sphero Mini Golf’s movements several ways in the Sphero Play app. Master the Joystick,Slingshot, or Tilt modes and celebrate an ace in no time — no clubs or lessons required.
TEE UP THE FUN
Sphero “putts” the fun into learning how to code with the Sphero Edu app. Download the Sphero Edu app to experience a coding journey in full swing. Explore activities, and share inventions and creations with the entire Sphero community. Sphero Mini Golf is the perfect way for golf fans of all ages and skill levels to have a “hole” lot of fun while learning.
TECH SPECS:
Sphero Mini® robotic ball with new removable, golf-themed shell
LED lights that glow in a variety of colors
Teeny, tiny tech: gyroscope motor encoders, and accelerometer sensors
Compatible with both Sphero Play app to play STEAM games and Sphero Edu app to learn the foundations of coding
Compatible with Sphero Edu® app for iOS, Android, Amazon Fire OS, macOS, Windows, & Chrome OS*
Compatible with Sphero Play app for iOS, Android, & Amazon Fire OS
Sphero Mini Golf adds to the Sphero Mini Sports collection, including Sphero Mini Soccer, which was released in September 2019. Sphero Mini Golf is available on sphero.com and through select retailers for $49.99 USD MSRP, £49.99 and €59.99 SRP.
Learn more about Sphero Mini GolfTM and the entire Sphero® and littleBits® product collection atsphero.com .
*Please see our device compatibilitysupport pages for specific versions of operating systems supported.
ABOUT SPHERO:
Sphero inspires the creators of tomorrow through remarkably cool, programmable robots, electronic building blocks, and educational tools that transform the way kids learn and create through coding, science, music, and the arts. Sphero goes #BeyondCode and drives kids to turn their imagination into reality. The skills kids unlock through play-based learning prepare them to thrive, no matter what subject or career they pursue. Based in Boulder, CO, Sphero has become the #1 STEAM-based learning solutions company, loved by millions of parents, kids, and educators worldwide. Learn more at sphero.com.
The more than 70 submissions to the ROIBOT Award 2020 make it clear that entry into automation can be achieved easily and cost-effectively. This year, in addition to the expert jury, for the first time the public also has the chance to vote for their personal favourite. At www.roibot.de you can find many innovative examples of how Low Cost Automation from igus can be used profitably: from Bathroom mirror cabinet with sound system up to the automated „Chocomatic“ praline dispenser.
igus‘ goal is to enable modern medium-sized companies, research institutes and creative individual engineers to enter the world of automation at a reasonable price with its Low Cost Automation. From various robotics modular systems to ready-to-connect linear robot solutions and intuitive control software, the motion plastics specialist offers users a wide range of cost-saving solutions for a fast return on investment (ROI). The numerous submissions to this year’s ROIBOT award show how this can be achieved in practice. For the first time, a jury of experts and the public will choose their favourites.
ROI can be achieved quickly thanks to Low Cost Automation from igus
The ROIBOT competition recognises Low Cost Robotics applications that have led to a quick return on investment, such as robolink articulated arm robots, drylin delta robots and linear robots from igus. A jury of experts from research, the specialist press and manufacturers will select the winners and award prize money of 5,000 euros to the first, 2,500 euros to the second and 1,000 euros to the third place. For the first time this year, the prize will be given together with a public vote. At www.roibot.de interested parties can obtain not only ideas and inspiration for their own project, but can also vote for their favourite until 30th September. For example, for pick-and-place applications like the pilot plant at VW plant in Emden, where a robolink D undertakes the automated continuous handling of components for the Passat/Arteon. In the Apostore system, a robolink D carries out the pick & place of medicines at the chemist. In both cases, the cost-effective automation of monotonous and simple tasks directly saves operating costs. Another example is the manipulation robot – a drone with a robot arm – from the University of Seville. It can easily and quickly reach remote or high-altitude work areas, making it suitable for inspection and maintenance applications at oil and gas refineries, power cables or wind and solar power plants. The Cartesian 2-DOF manipulator consists of two lightweight and low-maintenance linear guide systems and three carriages.
These and other submissions can be found at www.roibot.de.
Sphero, the industry leader in edtech programmable robots and STEAM-based educational tools, announced today that registration for the Sphero Global Challenge, its first robotics, invention and design competition for kids around the world, is now open.
Robotics competitions are a unique opportunity for kids, and are designed not only to focus on the technical proficiencies gained through programming and coding but also to build on the important ‘soft skills’ kids gain through STEAM.
Sphero, the industry leader in edtech programmable robots and STEAM-based educational tools, announced today that registration for the Sphero Global Challenge, its first robotics, invention and design competition for kids around the world, is now open.
The Sphero Global Challenge is the ultimate STEAM competition and an opportunity for kids to go deeper with computational thinking, engineering, and programming skills. Teams of all abilities are encouraged to work together to identify problems and develop solutions in different, real-world scenarios. Through this challenge, kids will work to accomplish their goals in various events that they will submit virtually to qualify for the Sphero World Championship in Spring 2021.
“We’re excited to offer a robotics, invention and design competition that highlights Sphero’s dedication to collaborative STEAM learning from anywhere in the world,” says Paul Copioli, Sphero CEO. “Robotics competitions are a unique opportunity for kids, and are designed not only to focus on the technical proficiencies gained through programming and coding but also to build on the important ‘soft skills’ kids gain through STEAM, such as collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking.”
TAKE FLIGHT WITH THREE UNIQUE STEAM EVENTS The Sphero Global Challenge comprises three unique events. Teams can compete in one event or up to all three with one $75 USD registration fee.
littleBits Invent 4 Good: Mission Earth Use littleBits and their Invention Cycle to solve problems facing the Earth right now. Kids will unleash their inner engineer as they invent a solution to an issue of their choice. In this event, kids can practice collaborating and innovating as they tackle a real-world problem.
BOLT: Space Mission Take flight in the BOLT Space Mission. During this event, kids can put their programming and engineering skills to work as they navigate through five challenges. Not only is this an opportunity to build STEAM skills, but it’s also a chance for them to collaborate, solve problems, and create.
RVR + littleBits: Mars Mission In RVR + littleBits Mars Mission, kids can use their coding and engineering skills to complete five challenges. Throughout this event, they’ll have opportunities to build their collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills as they work to reach solutions.
GEAR UP FOR THE CHALLENGE In conjunction with the Sphero Global Challenge launch, new competition-ready Sphero and littleBits products are now available to make getting started in the competition even simpler.
New: littleBits STEAM+ Class Pack The littleBits STEAM+ Class Pack is the ultimate STEAM learning toolkit, containing 240 Bits, 10 newly designed durable storage containers, printed teacher support materials and 40+ standards-aligned lessons to engage the entire class.
New: littleBits STEAM+ Kit The littleBits STEAM+ Kit contains 24 Bits, a newly designed durable storage container, printed teacher support materials, and 40+ hours of standards-aligned lessons to engage up to four students at a time.
New: Sphero Code Mat – Space & Soccer This two-sided activity mat, with new Space & Soccer themes, offers a simple, accessible way to learn block-based coding, basic math principles, and collaborative problem-solving with any round Sphero robot. The new Code Mat comes with three sets of 10 double-sided coding cards that provide guided, hands-on coding lessons.
New: Sphero RVR littleBits Topper Kit Sphero RVR + littleBits Topper Kit combines the best of Sphero with the best of littleBits in an easy, approachable kit that allows a user to fully utilize RVR’s onboard capabilities with littleBits adaptability to create unique inventions.
New: Sphero Craft Pack A one-stop-shop for all the crafting accessories needed for Sphero Global Challenge projects. With over 31 different items and hundreds of materials, the Craft Pack was designed with both Sphero robots and littleBits in mind.
TAKE THE CHALLENGE HOME The Sphero Global Challenge is committed to inspiring the creators of tomorrow, wherever that might be, even in blended, remote, or at-home learning scenarios. Learn more about resources and opportunities for solo teams or virtual meetings to complete the Sphero Global Challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic in our Sphero Global Challenge at-home guide.
ABOUT SPHERO: Sphero inspires the creators of tomorrow through remarkably cool, programmable robots, electronic building blocks, and educational tools that transform the way kids learn and create through coding, science, music, and the arts. Sphero goes #BeyondCode and drives kids to turn their imagination into reality. The skills kids unlock through play-based learning prepare them to thrive, no matter what subject or career they pursue. Based in Boulder, CO, Sphero has become the #1 STEAM-based learning solutions company, loved by millions of parents, kids, and educators worldwide. Learn more at sphero.com.
Köln, 25. August 2020 – Dass der Einstieg in die Automatisierung einfach und kostengünstig gelingen kann, machen die über 70 Einreichungen beim ROIBOT Award 2020 deutlich. In diesem Jahr hat neben der Fachjury erstmalig auch das Publikum die Chance für den persönlichen Favoriten abzustimmen. Auf www.roibot.de finden sich viele innovative Beispiele wie Low Cost Automation von igus gewinnbringend eingesetzt werden kann: vom Badspiegelschrank mit Soundanlage bis zur automatisierten Pralinenausgabe „Chocomatic“.
Modernen mittelständischen Betrieben, Forschungseinrichtungen und kreativen Einzel-Ingenieuren den kostengünstigen Einstieg in die Automatisierung ermöglichen: Dieses Ziel verfolgt igus mit seiner Low Cost Automation. Von verschiedenen Robotik-Baukästen über direkt anschlussfertige Portallösungen bis hin zur intuitiven Steuerungssoftware bietet der motion plastics Spezialist Anwendern ein breites Angebot Kosten sparender Lösungen für einen schnellen Return on Investment (kurz: ROI). Wie das in der Praxis gelingen kann, das zeigen die zahlreichen Einreichungen beim diesjährigen ROIBOT Award. Erstmals kürt neben einer Fachjury auch das Publikum dabei seinen Favoriten.
ROI schnell erzielt dank Low Cost Automation von igus
Der ROIBOT Wettbewerb zeichnet Low Cost Robotics Anwendungen aus, die zu einem schnellen Return on Investment geführt haben. Zum Einsatz kommen dabei sowohl robolink Gelenkarmroboter, drylin Delta Roboter sowie Portal-Roboter von igus. Eine Fachjury aus Forschung, Fachpresse und Hersteller wählt die Gewinner aus und vergibt ein Preisgeld von 5.000 Euro an den ersten, 2.500 Euro an den zweiten und 1.000 Euro an den dritten Platz. Der Preis wird zum ersten Mal in diesem Jahr gemeinsam mit dem Publikumsaward vergeben. Auf www.roibot.de erhalten Interessierte nicht nur Ideen und Inspiration für ihr eigenes Projekt, sondern können auch bis zum 30. September für ihren Favoriten abstimmen. Zum Beispiel für Pick&Place-Anwendungen wie die Pilotanlage im VW Werk Emden, in der ein robolink D für das automatisierte kontinuierliche Handling von Bauteilen für den Passat/Arteon zuständig ist. Im System von Apostore übernimmt ein robolink D das Pick&Place von Medikamenten in Apotheken. In beiden Fällen spart die kostengünstige Automatisierung monotoner und einfacher Aufgaben unmittelbar Betriebskosten ein. Ein anderes Beispiel ist der Manipulationsroboter – eine Drohne mit Roboterarm – der Universität Sevilla. Er kann entlegene oder in großer Höhe befindliche Arbeitsbereiche einfach und schnell erreichen und eignet sich so für Inspektions- und Wartungsanwendungen an Öl- und Gasraffinerien, Stromleitungen oder Windkraft- und Solaranlagen. Der kartesische 2-DOF-Manipulator besteht aus zwei leichten und wartungsarmen Lineargleitführungen sowie drei Schlitten.
Diese und weitere Einreichungen finden sich auf www.roibot.de.
CoderZ has launched CoderZ Adventure, a new coding and robotics course for elementary school students in grades two through five. The course contains activities and assignments, including more than 50 gamified “missions” with easy-to-follow walkthroughs and tips. It is designed to empower even teachers who are coding novices so that they can include a more comprehensive STEM foundation in their students’ early knowledge base.
CoderZ Adventure introduces students to the world of STEM and robotics through an exciting journey of adventures in the CoderZ world. Students will learn how to program their virtual robot to navigate in CoderZ Frozen Island, the Lost City, Candy Town and other stimulating locations while practicing basic math, geometry and more. Students work their way through seven adventures covering multiple topics:
1. Adventure Peak introduces basic navigation such as driving and turning using Drive and Turn blocks. 2. Frozen Island practices basic arithmetic practice: addition, subtraction and division. 3. The Lost City covers how to use the program’s Explore Mode feature to measure distances, the Wait block and Repeat Loops 4. Crystal Crater covers basic geometry exercises: angles and parallel lines. Students also practice Repeat Loops. 5. Candy Town delves into more geometry: the concept of the radius of a circle. Students also continue practicing Repeat Loops. 6. Sketch It is a practice exercise during which students draw on a virtual sketchpad using all the skills learned previously. 7. The Milky Way uses the Explore Mode feature to measure angles and radii. Students plan the optimal route to complete a mission as quickly and efficiently as possible, given a time limit.
Each session contains a series of related missions that enable students to learn to code with the virtual robot, apply their math skills and practice problem solving.
CoderZ Adventure is already proving popular with teachers and their students. One of the program’s fans is Christy Gonzales who teaches a robotics class at Pinecrest Glades Academy in Florida. “They’re loving the game!” she said. She challenges each student to try to find the solution first. “I incentivize them to resolve the challenge as efficiently as possible,” she explained. “Kids LOVE a race.”
“It’s great to see the CoderZ Team bookend the well-known middle school Cyber Robotics 101 and 102 packages expanding to a complete pedagogical solution with CoderZ Adventure as an incredible elementary school solution and text-based Python Gym for secondary school students,” said Trevor Pope, CoderZ Success Manager at CoderZ. “Programming virtual robots with CoderZ has an educational, engaging, competitive, fun and positive impact for all students in grades 2-12.”
About CoderZ CoderZ is an innovative and engaging online learning environment. Developed for students in grades 2 and above, the gamified STEM solution allows student to work at their own pace, easily programming real and virtual robots from anywhere in the world. The platform enables students to acquire computational thinking, problem solving and creativity skills, together with coding and STEM learning, all via a flexible and scalable virtual solution. For more information go to http://www.gocoderz.com.
Deutschland setzt sich als Gastgeberland gegen Südkorea durch
(lifePR) (Menden, 13.11.19) Das Weltfinale der World Robot Olympiad (WRO), einem internationalen Roboterwettbewerb für Kinder und Jugendliche, kommt im Jahr 2021 erstmalig nach Deutschland. Im November 2021 wird die Stadt Dortmund Austragungsort eines internationalen Festivals mit über 3.000 internationalen Gästen, Kindern und Jugendlichen aus rund 80 Ländern.
Der Verein TECHNIK BEGEISTERT e.V., nationaler Partner der weltweiten WRO Association für alle Wettbewerbe in Deutschland, setzt seine Erfolgsgeschichte fort. Gestartet in 2012 entwickelte er die WRO zu einem der größten Roboterwettbewerbe für Kinder und Jugendliche ab 6 Jahren hierzulande. Jetzt steht fest: Das Weltfinale der WRO wird vom 19.-21. November 2021 nach Deutschland kommen.
Am Montag, den 11.11.2019 präsentierten Vertreter des Vereins gemeinsam mit Ullrich Sierau, Oberbürgermeister der Stadt Dortmund, und Partnern das Konzept zur Austragung des internationalen WRO-Finales vor dem internationalen Expertengremium der World Robot Olympiad Association. Die Präsentation fand im Rahmen des diesjährigen WRO-Finales im ungarischen Győr statt.
Die Präsentation überzeugte. Am Dienstag erhielt der Verein die positive Nachricht: Die World Robot Olympiad Association vergibt die Austragung des Weltfinales 2021 an Deutschland. „Wir freuen uns sehr und wir sehen die Entscheidung als Bestätigung unserer gemeinsamen Arbeit mit engagierten Partnern und Ehrenamtlichen, die WRO in Deutschland zu einer der größten MINT-Initiativen zu entwickeln. Die Vorfreude ist riesengroß und wir wollen auf dem Weg bis 2021 noch viel mehr Kinder und Jugendliche für Technik begeistern. Jetzt geht es so richtig los.“, so Markus Fleige, Vorsitzender des Vereins TECHNIK BEGEISTERT e.V.
Und auch Oberbürgermeister Ullrich Sierau, langjähriger Unterstützer der WRO, erklärt begeistert: „Es ist gelungen, dieses internationale Event nach Dortmund zu holen. Das finde ich großartig. Ich bin voller Vorfreude auf die jungen, talentierten Gäste aus der ganzen Welt. Dieses Finale passt zu Dortmund – einer Stadt, in der Digitalisierung und der Einsatz digitaler Technik schon lange erfolgreich stattfinden. Ob zum Beispiel in den Bereichen Bildung, Wissenschaft, Wirtschaft, Startup, Kultur oder Verwaltung – überall ist erkennbar, dass wir hier gut aufgestellt, zukunftsorientiert und konkurrenzfähig sind.“
Bedeutendes Format – Leuchtturmprojekt für Deutschland
Nicht nur für Deutschland, gerade auch für Nordrhein-Westfalen ist die Vergabe der World Robot Olympiad 2021 nach Dortmund großer Erfolg und Chance zugleich. Die Förderung von Kindern und Jugendlichen, gerade auch im MINT-Bereich, stellt einen wichtigen Hebel für den zukünftigen wirtschaftlichen Erfolg und die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit des Standortes dar.
Fast 2.000 Kinder und Jugendliche aus über 80 Ländern, die sich unter den weltweit gut 90.000 Mädchen und Jungen für die Teilnahme am Weltfinale durchsetzen, werden erwartet. Kreative, innovative und jungen Köpfe – die Ingenieure, IT-Spezialisten und Erfinder des 21. Jahrhunderts aus der ganzen Welt mit über 3.000 Gästen kommen im November 2021 nach Dortmund. Eine Veranstaltung mit internationaler Strahlkraft.
Wirtschafts- und Innovationsminister Prof. Dr. Andreas Pinkwart, der das Vorhaben als Vertreter der Landesregierung von Nordrhein-Westfalen unterstützt, freut sich über die positive Entscheidung: „Roboter spielen in Unternehmen eine immer größere Rolle und sie sind Symbol digitalen Wandels in Wirtschaft und Gesellschaft. Zudem liefern sie zunehmend nachhaltige Lösungen für ökonomische, ökologische und soziale Herausforderungen. Dass das Weltfinale der World Robot Olympiad 2021 erstmals in Dortmund ausgetragen wird, ist daher ein toller Erfolg. Ich möchte allen Beteiligten Dank und Anerkennung für ihr Engagement aussprechen.“
Zwei Jahre Vorbereitung – weitere Aktionen geplant
Für den Verein mit seinen Partnern genau die Chance, auf die sie schon seit 2017 in konkreten Planungen hingearbeitet haben: dem ‚I‘ in MINT, der Informatik Attraktivität und Aufmerksamkeit zu geben. Bis zu 100 Stunden investiert jede/r Teilnehmer/in pro WRO-Saison in Lösungsstrategien, programmtechnische Umsetzung und ständige Optimierung um in den gestaffelten Wettbewerben zu bestehen. Mehr als viele Schulen an Informatikuntererreicht in einem Schuljahr anbieten können.
Schon vor der Entscheidung für Deutschland, starteten die Planungen für den weiteren Ausbau der Aktivtäten rund um eine Saison. Ziel des Vereins war immer: es geht nicht um drei Tage Event im November 2021, es geht um nachhaltige Entwicklung von mehr und besseren Angeboten, Mädchen und Jungen für Technik zu begeistern und Kenntnisse auch zu vertiefen und weiterzuentwickeln. Hierzu werden auf dem Weg ins Jahr 2021 einerseits neue Austragungsorte für Wettbewerbe entstehen, andererseits arbeitet der Verein mit seinen Partnern daran, wie die Bildungsangebote rund um die Wettbewerbe noch weiter ausgebaut werden können. „Das ist wirklich wie eine Fußball-Weltmeisterschaft im eigenen Land. Du gibst den Teams noch einmal einen ganz anderen Ansporn und schaffst viel mehr Breite und Aufmerksamkeit für das wichtige Thema informatische Bildung.“, so Peter Kusterer, Leiter Corporate Citizenship bei IBM Deutschland, Partner der WRO seit 2012 und einer der Mitinitiatoren für das Weltfinale 2021.
Neben dem Unternehmen IBM Deutschland (Ehningen) unterstützen das Land NRW in Form des Ministeriums für Wirtschaft, Innovation, Digitalisierung und Energie, die Stadt Dortmund mit der Initiative Dortmunder Talent, die Westfalenhallen Unternehmensgruppe, die SIGNAL Iduna Gruppe, die Jaeger Gruppe sowie die Wilo-Foundation, KARL-KOLLE-Stiftung, Elmos-Stiftung (alle Dortmund), Dieter-Fuchs-Stiftung (Dissen), Stiftung Mercator (Essen) und die Innogy-Stiftung (Essen) das Weltfinale 2021 in Dortmund. Zusätzlich zur finanziellen Unterstützung, packen die Partner und ihre Mitarbeiter/innen mit an, agieren als Coaches, Schiedsrichter oder unterstützen in der Organisation.
Und agieren nicht als geschlossener Kreis. „Openness“ ist der Megatrend in der IT-Industrie – das gilt nicht nur der Technik, sondern ist auch Haltung in der Zusammenarbeit. Der Verein freut sich, wenn in den nächsten Wochen weitere Partner zu diesem Netzwerk hinzukommen, sodass zum einen das Budget vollständig gesichert und noch weitere gemeinsame Aktionen zum Ausbau des Wettbewerbs in Deutschland geplant werden können.
Wie kann man uns unterstützen? Wir freuen uns über jede Person, jedes Unternehmen, jede Stiftung oder andere Institution, die unseren Verein und in diesem Fall unser Vorhaben „Weltfinale 2021 in Dortmund“ unterstützen möchte. Werden Sie doch Fördermitglied in unserem Verein, unterstützen Sie uns mit einer Spende oder kontaktieren Sie uns mit Ihrer Idee.
Wir fördern die Ingenierinnen und Ingenieure von Morgen!
Der Verein TECHNIK BEGEISTERT e.V. wurde im Jahr 2011 mit der Motivation gegründet, Kinder und Jugendliche in Deutschland mithilfe von Roboterwettbewerb für Technik zu begeistern.
Seit dem Jahr 2012 organsiert der Verein gemeinsam mit Partnern im ganzen Bundesgebiet die deutsche Runde zum internationalen Roboterwettbewerb World Robot Olympiad. Im Jahr 2019 fanden 33 regionale WRO-Wettbewerbe statt, über 760 Teams aus Schulen und privat organisierten Gruppen hatten sich zur WRO 2019 angemeldet. Im Laufe einer WRO-Saison engagieren sich über 600 Personen ehrenamtlich als Helfer, Schiedsrichter oder Jurymitglied in die Organisation und Durchführung der Roboterwettbewerbe.
Neben der Organisation des WRO-Wettbewerbs bietet der Verein Schulungen und Workshops mit LEGO-Robotern an, um vor allem Lehrerinnen und Lehrer beim Aufbau von Roboter-AGs an einer Schule zu unterstützen.
