Every school and classroom is different, and creative robotics are not one-size-fits-all! Here are some of the most frequently needed modifications, that can help you to fit robotics into your schedule, budget, and classroom space.
From tiny tweaks to large-scale adjustments, let us help you tailor exactly to fit your needs.
Thank you to the many teachers that have shared their strategies for modifying our learning tools for
every learning environment.
Short on time?
- If your teaching schedule allows, collaborate with teachers across subject areas to create meaningful, interdisciplinary projects and dedicate more time to the project.
- Hummingbird projects and Finch activities make perfect after school programs. If it works for you and your school community, consider beginning a Robotics Club or inviting students to stay after school to work.
- With Hummingbird, consider supplying already built robots or 2D photos attached to cardboard. Both of these options cut down build time, but provide ample programming practice.
- Try a simplified build with the Hummingbird Kit! Our Simple Builds and Hummingbird Hacks are helpful for tight schedules.
Short on equipment?
- If you need to work with groups larger than the intended 2-3 students, consider adding roles to each group. For example: Students can research, document the process, explain robot design, write narratives that align to code (“Finch is moving through a map of our school…”), etc.
- If necessary, multiple groups can share by taking turns with one Hummingbird Robotics Kit. Split the components evenly between groups, and set a timer for each group to get a turn with the controller (the Kit’s brain). Groups can work on the building and programming of their robot while the controller is with another group; they can then test their creations and tweak their code when it is their turn.
- Check out our Grant Assistance page for info on where to find grants and answering application Qs.
Teaching remotely?
- There are number of ways to engage students with creative robotics via a remote or hybrid learning environment, whether or not students have equipment at home. Check out our Remote Teaching page to learn more!
Need more differentiation?
- If you have some students that need a challenge, consider adding additional criteria to their assignment such as use 2 sensors in your project, incorporate a 2nd micro:bit as a remote control, or incorporate variables.
- For students who need more support or scaffolding with Hummingbird, printable resources like our Hardware Guide, Block Descriptions, Coding Cards, and Troubleshooting Cards may be helpful.
Need more extension?
- Extend your showcase! Invite members of the community, other grades, administrators, etc. Challenge students to tweak their code to fit the new audience, or even teach the audience how to change the robot’s behavior. Can they teach visitors to light an LED or make the robot move?
- What if students’ unique robot designs could be manufactured in real life? Consider assigning a “Shark Tank” style business pitch (written or presentation). Why should someone invest 1 million dollars in creating a robotic puppy, moving wall art, or Finch battle bot?