I have had the opportunity to work with a group of sixth graders on a new program this year. We have begun a robotics program, and I have to tell you, I am amazed! We gave these kids a bunch of Legos, computer access, and a few tuna cans and paper, and we ended up with some astonishing results!
When my co-teacher and I first began this program, I will confess to experiencing some trepidation along with my enthusiasm. We went to a workshop over the summer to learn about this program. I will be honest. Neither of us will ever get rich building any type of electronic or robotic device. We had to build a robot of our own and there were a few times we were not certain of the outcome of our efforts! A few hours and lot of laughter later, however, we ended up with a robot that actually worked! This has helped us to better understand what the students go through as they work through the problem of how to build this robot and how to make it go.
Luckily, our kids have shown an amazing aptitude for this project! They amazed everyone – including themselves. We have robots that perform specific tasks for a competition that is like a race – pushing tuna cans! We also have robots that are completely original and of their own design. One is a search and rescue bot, one carries the attendance to the office, while a third sorts Legos by color so we don’t have to!
I don’t want to mislead you, however, the process is still ongoing and has not been a bed of roses and I admit to laughing at times to our mistakes! Luckily, the kids are great and laugh along with us!
For example: “Mrs. Moore, the robot won’t work! I keep pushing the button!” (Panicked).
“Is it turned on?”
–silence—“oh, yeah….”
We’ve had a series of mishaps from the beginning: delays, computer issues, supply issues, scheduling, illnesses, absences, and all the drama that comes from being a sixth grader. But our kids have come through like troupers. I can only shake my head in amazement and awe at these resilient, amazing creatures – these sixth graders. I am exceedingly proud of all of them and how they have pulled through, in spite of everything, and continue to push ahead to the next goal. Those kids are truly amazing!
Really….I love my job!
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