Coding, and Bots, and Mats...Oh My!

When you're not sure which bot to buy, why not test them all? Over the past several years, I've been able to purchase several different types of primary "coding" robots, and after using them with my students, have come to appreciate their different features, abilities, and limitations. There is one thing they all have in common though -- the kids love them!

The most basic robots we've used are the Bee-Bot and the Code & Go Robot Mouse. They are very similar in both function and design, with simple command buttons right on their backs.

Bee-Bot can be charged using a USB, and has a separate switch that allows the sound to be turned off. This robot also features a 1-second pause button. Each forward move advances the robot 15 centimeters.

Code & Go Robot Mouse requires 3 AAA batteries. This robot has a red "special moves" button which allows a random sound or movement to be programmed into the code. Each forward move advances the robot 13 centimeters.

Other than these small differences, these robots are almost identical. They are very easy for students to use, and provide a simple introduction to coding. The biggest challenge for my children was learning to see things from the robot's perspective; for example, when the robot is traveling toward a child, and the child wants the robot to turn right, this is actually "left" to the robot.

I did notice that the novelty of these robots wore off fairly quickly, so I created some mats for practicing spelling, phonics, and math. I have also begun to create some holiday-themed mats to tuck in coding practice throughout the year. Please see my next blog post for detailed directions on how to create a mat for Bee-bot or Code & Go Robot Mouse.