Top 3 educational robot kits for children

With many GCC countries realizing the need to diversify into knowledge-based economies for sustainable economic growth, the role of STEM education has gained significance. In fact, the UAE has been one of the first GCC countries to embrace STEM education in a big way.

Many schools in Dubai and Abu Dhabi have integrated robotics through STEM subjects to spark the interest of students.

Robot kits are a great way to introduce robotics to kids at an early age. Here’s our pick of some of the best programmable robot kits that offer a hands-on building experience for students, while also making learning a lot of fun.

LEGO Mindstorms Education EV3 Core Set

The Mindstorms Education EV3 Core Set allows students to build, program and test the solutions based on real-life robotics technology, enabling them to develop critical thinking, creativity and collaboration.

The set includes an EV3 Intelligent Brick, a sorting tray, three servo motors, five sensors, an EV3 rechargeable battery (with charging cable), connecting cables, the EV3 software, an introduction guide and a step-by-step video tutorial. The EV3 Intelligent Brick is a powerful small computer that makes it possible to control motors and collect sensor feedback.

By using the software to program robots, students can understand, interpret, distinguish and implement various mathematical concepts with the use of high-quality motors, sensors, gears, wheels, axles and other technical components.

LEGO Education WeDo 2.0

LEGO WeDo is a robotics kit designed for elementary students that aims to enhance students’ curiosity and science skills.

LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 contains sorting trays, labels, a Smarthub, Medium Motor, Motion Sensor, Tilt Sensor and building elements needed for two students to complete all the projects in the curriculum pack. The SmartHub connects to a computer or tablet via Bluetooth.

The software has a drag-and-drop interface that helps children experiment with the commands and program their robots. Through the software, students are introduced to computational thinking and engineering principles like modelling reality, conducting investigations and using design skills.

KUBO TagTiles Coding Robot

KUBO is a screen-free, motorized robot that runs on batteries and is connected to Bluetooth. It teaches coding skills to children (aged 4-10) using TagTiles.

The TagTiles programming language works like a puzzle with pieces that snap together. Children put puzzle pieces of code together, KUBO then scans the TagTiles and gives feedback by lighting up. The TagTiles contain a specific code for the robot to interpret.

With KUBO TagTiles Coding set, children can learn algorithms, sequential thinking, loops, parameters and much more.

The KUBO TagTiles Coding set comes with a robot, TagTiles, illustrated lesson plans, worksheets, assessments, video tutorials, tasks cards and start guides to help new learners operate the set.

ATLAB

ATLAB, an associate of the Centena Group, provides hands-on innovative classroom learning solutions for educational and vocational training centres.

ATLAB is also an authorized distributor providing high-quality robotic learning kits from major brands such as LEGO Education, SAM Labs, XYZ Printing, Robolink, Pitsco Tetrix, HiTechnic in the GCC.