Physical Computing - Central Rivers AEA

The use of robots in the classroom allows students to use the skills developed through learning to code; problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration, along with their sharpened math and science skills in a hands-on environment. These robots allow students the opportunity to develop their pre-coding and coding skills in the physical world and are available for checkout in our media catalog.

Items are available for a 10-day checkout period. To reserve any of these resources, contact Media Services at reservations@centralriversaea.org, or by calling 641-844-2410 or 800-735-1539.

Title	Age Range	Description	Computer Science Concepts and Practices Addressed
Bee-Bot	Preschool, Primary	Bee-Bot is an exciting robot designed specifically for use by young children. This colorful, easy-to-operate, and friendly little robot is a perfect tool for teaching sequencing, estimation, problem-solving, and just having fun! Bee-Bots in the Classroom Bee-Bot Website Check out the Bee-Bot Accessory Pack Mission: Bee-Bot Martian Base	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Bluebot	Preschool & Primary	Meet Blue-Bot, the Bee-Bot robot with a Bluetooth connection! Use the buttons on the back to program Blue-Bot just like Bee-Bot. Connect Blue-Bot to your tablet or PC via Bluetooth, using free apps, and program Blue-Bot remotely. Blue-Bot offers all the features of Bee-Bot while also introducing remote control! Blue-Bot Website Check out the Blue-Bot Accessory Pack Mission: Blue-Bot Martian Base	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Circuit Playground Classic	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	This is the Classic version of Circuit Playground, which comes with an ATmega32u4. It’s designed to be used with Arduino IDE and code.org CS Discoveries only. It even comes with Firmata already programmed in, so you can use it immediately with code.org Discoveries without any preparation or updates.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Cozmo Robot	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Cozmo’s big brain and even bigger personality are operated by impressive technology. Besides all the games and smarts he comes with out of the box, you have access to a visual programming language that’s stem-ready for beginners. Program Cozmo to do anything by simply using the drag and drop coding blocks on the Cozmo app to build a new combination of blocks, and you’ll see Cozmo act out your creation.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Cubelets – Brilliant Builders Pack	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Cubelets uses Tactile Coding to help builders of nearly any age explore robotics, coding, and more. Uniquely designed, they are little bundles of the software inside little bundles of hardware. As you build a robot, you learn to build a program. It’s a fun and fascinating way to introduce big ideas through play.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Cubetto	Preschool & Primary	Screenless coding for ages 3 and up. The Cubetto Playset has everything you need to start your coding adventures, straight out of the box.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Cue	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Cue will help learners transition from block-based code to state-machine and text-based programming. With a growing library of in-app demos, tutorials, and challenges, Cue supports the self-guided exploration of programming languages, robotic capabilities, and personally meaningful projects. Cue’s motors and sensors work together seamlessly to provide accurate and versatile behavior while reacting in real-time.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Dash – Dash & Dot	Primary, Intermediate & Middle School	Dash is beloved by kids and teachers across the US and around the world. Dash is smart enough to respond to voices and sounds and Dash can dance and sing, which makes for a fun and interactive learning experience for kids. Dash will help kids learn, laugh, and grow. Designed for kids 6+.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Finch robot	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Finch is a robot that inspires and delights students learning computer science by providing them a tangible representation of their code. The Finch responds to light, temperature, and obstacles, among many other capabilities. It also has support for a range of programming languages and environments, with coding options for students from ages 5 to 105!	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Hummingbird Duo	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	The Hummingbird Robotics Kit is an easy-to-use, creative robotics tool which allows students to design, build, and program a personally meaningful robot out of any materials, with any device, in multiple programming languages.	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Kai’s Clan Starter Pack	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Teach coding, robotics, AR, VR, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in one easy-to-use web platform that works seamlessly on just about any device. Kai’s Clan’s newest feature allows students to create their own Robot avatars in Tinkercad or Minecraft. Used for storytelling, students create their own Minecraft hero and when they code their Kai robot to move around, the Robot 3D avatar also moves around the virtual world. Create 3D environments that align with the lessons you teach and then view your lesson in AR or VR!	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Kano	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Kano invented the first make-your-own computer for all ages, the Kano Computer Kit, in 2014. A kit for all ages to build and code a computer themselves using the illustrated ideas and simple steps. Make games, learn code, create the future. (Powered by Raspberry Pi) If a child can read, they can build and program a computer. It also includes an Open Source operating system, Pong, and Minecraft. The kit also includes a Standalone screen.	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 core set	Primary, Intermediate & Middle School	This award-winning solution is based upon the latest science standards and was created to enhance students’ curiosity and science skills. The set is delivered in a storage bin along with sorting trays, labels, a Smarthub, a Medium Motor, Motion Sensor, a Tilt Sensor, and enough building elements for two students. Supported software provides an easy-to-use programming environment and includes the WeDo 2.0 Curriculum Pack, which covers life, physical, earth, and space sciences, as well as engineering.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
LittleBits Kits : Base, Code, Deluxe, Premium, Space, Synth	Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Turn your ideas into reality with littleBits! Explore your creativity using littleBits and make inventions that wow others. We offer a complete collection of littleBits kits, including sets for the home, classroom, and standalone Bits. With littleBits, you’ll develop important STEM skills while having fun. Snap together the easy-to-use building blocks and start inventing. There’s never been an easy and accessible way to learn electronics and engineering — until now. Explore our collection of littleBits!	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Makey Makey	Intermediate & Middle School	The original Makey Makey Classic – Named one of Consumer Reports’ “Best Tech Toys of 2014,” “Best of Toy Fair 2014” by Popular Science, and a finalist for Toy of the Year 2016. The first setup takes seconds. Then make game controllers, musical instruments, and countless inventions. Advance to additional inputs and multi-key remapping up to 18 keys. Ages 8 to infinity.	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Micro:bit Educator Lab Pack	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	The micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer that lets you get creative with digital technology. Between the micro:bit and our shield-like bit boards you can do almost anything while coding, customizing and controlling your micro:bit from almost anywhere! At half the size of a credit card, this versatile board has vast potential!	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Osmo Explorer Starter Kit	Primary & Intermediate	We know kids learn by doing, so each game uses physical action. Our most complete STEAM learning kit yet, Explorer Starter Kit features all of the interactive kids games from Genius Starter Kit, Monster and Coding Family. Includes games pieces, art supplies, and stackable storage — Just add your tablet!	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Ozobot Bit & Ozobot Evo	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Teach yourself to code two ways: online with OzoBlockly and screen-free with Color Codes. OzoBlockly, powered by Google’s Blockly, has five skill levels for beginners to master coding. Color Codes, made with markers on paper, teach basic STEAM skills, critical thinking, and debugging.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Raspberry Pi	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Raspberry Pi is a low cost, credit-card sized computer that plugs into a computer monitor or TV, and uses a standard keyboard and mouse. It is a capable little device that enables people of all ages to explore computing and to learn how to program in languages like Scratch and Python.	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Networks and the Internet Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
SAM labs Maker Kit	Primary, Intermediate & Middle School	Hands-on physical computing with wireless Bluetooth blocks for simple integration into the classroom SAM Space and SAM Blockly are compatible with Google Chrome, Windows, iOS (SAM Space only), and Mac to suit your classroom’s inventory. The SAM Space and SAM Blockly platform provides visual, flow-based coding and immersive block-based coding, covering all student skill-sets.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Sphero Bolt	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	BOLT is Sphero’s most advanced coding robotic ball to date, providing even more ways to express inventive ideas and experience the power of programming. Sphero BOLT is ideal for educators to send home with students. Packed with plenty of programmable sensors and a colorful LED light matrix, Sphero BOLT is paving the way for the next generation of coders.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Sphero Indi	Primary	An entry-level learning robot for ages 4+. indi inspires imaginative, play-based learning by empowering kids to design and build their own mazes while creating opportunities for students to learn the basics of coding, solve problems, and nurture computational thinking skills.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Sphero Mini	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Beginner learners can drive and play STEM-inspired games with the Sphero Play App, and more experienced learners can advance to programming the Mini with Block-Based Coding or Javascript in the Sphero Edu App. Equipped with a gyroscope, accelerometer, and colorful LED lights, this educational robot is more than a mini robot toy. Sphero Mini is the perfect entry into robotics for beginners!	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Sphero RVR	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	RVR is made for makers, hackers, coders – and you. Sphero’s revolutionary take on what it means to be programmable, this all-terrain robot is built for customization. Code with it, build on it, and hack the robot of your dreams. With RVR, you can go anywhere and do anything. Drive anywhere with RVR’s powerful motor, all-terrain treads, and high torque.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Sphero Sprk+	Primary, Intermediate, Middle School & High School	Sphero SPRK+ is a programmable robot ball designed to inspire creativity and curiosity through coding and play. With SPRK+, you can easily learn programming, complete hands-on STEAM activities, and share your creations with the community. Power up your playtime. Equipped with powerful programmable sensors like motor encoders, LED lights, accelerometer, and a gyroscope	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Squishy Circuit Hardware Kit	Primary, Intermediate & Middle School	From Maker Shed. Explore electronics and create circuits using a fun and familiar form of dough. Just mix according to the included recipe card, add some batteries, and soon you’ll be lighting LEDs, making noise, and running motors by simply plugging them into the conductive dough.	Concepts: Computing Systems Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing
Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar	Preschool & Primary	Code-a-pillar inspires little learners to be big thinkers by encouraging preschoolers to arrange (and rearrange) the easy-to-connect segments in endless combinations, sending Code-a-pillar on his path. This learning toy encourages experimentation while developing important skills like problem-solving, planning & sequencing, and critical thinking. They’re engaged in a hands-on, open-ended discovery that helps them become lifelong learners.	Concepts: Algorithms and Programming Practices: Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture Collaborating Around Computing Recognizing and Defining Computational Problems Developing and Using Abstractions Creating Computational Artifacts Testing and Refining Computational Artifacts Communicating About Computing