STEM subjects will play a key role in tomorrow’s education system, but how can we get students excited about them in the long term? Robot kits provide an answer: they facilitate practical learning, encourage logical thinking and allow for creativity. They give children and young people direct access to the world of technology in a fun and engaging way.
Why is robotics important in education?
Robotics projects offer students a whole new way of learning. They shift the focus away from pure theory and towards tangible, action-oriented practice. This interdisciplinary approach makes complex relationships tangible and understandable. Instead of being treated in isolation, mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology are meaningfully intertwined in the classroom.
Not only do robotics projects enable initial contact with digital technologies, they also promote early technological understanding. Children and young people learn how sensors work, how data is processed and how they can influence technical processes through programming. In addition, fundamental skills such as problem-solving, teamwork and creative thinking are strengthened.
Another advantage of robotics projects is that they yield visible results quickly. Seeing a self-built robot come to life creates a real “aha” moment. This increases motivation and interest in technology in the long term.
Practical tips for getting started:
Getting started in robotics doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Simple kits that don’t require much prior knowledge are ideal for this purpose. You can then gradually increase the level of difficulty. However, it is important to choose age-appropriate options. For example, in elementary school, robust systems with intuitive visual programming are ideal. In higher grades, more complex models can be considered. Text-based programming languages such as Python or Arduino also become more relevant at this stage.
Another useful approach is to use kits with various design options. Students are often particularly motivated when they have the opportunity to realise their own ideas and design the robot themselves. To involve every student, it is helpful to form small working groups. These groups can then specialise in different areas, such as programming, construction and documentation.
To make the introduction sustainable, it is worth drawing on existing resources. Teacher training courses, makerspaces and robotics clubs can provide practical guidance and opportunities for networking. These can also act as multipliers to help embed the topic in the school in the long term. Online tutorials and platforms can also be helpful for implementation.
These kits ensure a smooth start
- Comprehensive kit for getting started:
The ACEBOTT Quadruped Bionic Spider offers an exciting introduction to the world of robotics. This four-legged robot kit provides hands-on learning in mechanics, electronics, and programming. Equipped with a powerful ESP8266 microcontroller, multiple servo motors, and integrated WiFi functionality, the Bionic Spider can be precisely controlled and flexibly programmed. Thanks to support for Arduino and block-based programming, the kit is suitable for both beginners and more advanced projects. The realistic movement control of a quadruped robot creates a strong learning effect and high motivation in the classroom or robotics club.
- For beginners and advanced users:
The ACEBOTT Bionic Biped Robot Kit provides an advanced entry into humanoid robotics. At its core is a powerful ESP32 microcontroller with integrated WiFi and Bluetooth functionality. Multiple high-precision servo motors enable stable bipedal movement and open up a wide range of programming possibilities. The kit supports both block-based programming as well as Arduino and Python, allowing the difficulty level to be adjusted individually. Students not only learn motion control and sensor integration, but also deepen their understanding of algorithms, coordination, and technical concepts. This makes the biped robot ideal for secondary school classes and project-based STEM education.
- Robotics and MicroPython learning adventure:
Whether in the classroom or at home, the Arduino Alvik learning robot inspires creative experimentation and meticulous work. It introduces future-oriented topics such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence. Powerful motors with encoders are combined with the Arduino Nano ESP32. It also features high-quality line tracking, colour recognition, ultrasonic and motion sensors. In addition, it offers numerous expansion options. Thanks to its LEGO Technic-compatible connections, Qwiic and Grove interfaces, the robot can be customised in a variety of ways. It is ideal for individual projects and requires no soldering or complicated wiring.
- Autonomous robot car:
The JOY-IT CAR Kit has been specifically designed for use in schools and other educational institutions. Based on the BBC Micro:Bit and integrated into the Fraunhofer Institute’s Open Roberta platform, it offers an accessible introduction to electronics and programming, even for those with no prior experience. You can start using it with Open Roberta, MakeCode or MicroPython. The autonomous robot car can be controlled via Bluetooth using a second Micro:Bit. It also features LED headlights, turn signals, reverse lights and a horn to simulate realistic vehicle functions.
Understanding technology: shaping the future.
In an increasingly digital world, technical understanding is a vital skill for the future. Robot kits provide a practical introduction to this subject. They impart basic knowledge of mechanics, electronics and programming. They also open the door to more complex subjects, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). This transforms playful experimentation into a sustainable learning process. This promotes creativity. It also hones problem-solving skills. It paves the way to forward-looking career fields.
Images: JOY-IT, Adobe Stock
