To prepare yourself for teaching a robotics unit, How Robots Work provides a good overview of the basic components of robots, how different kinds of robots operate, and the possibilities of artificial intelligence. Then check out this series of robot articles to learn about the most current and innovative uses of robots and artificial intelligence.
PBS Learning Media offers introductory Crash Course videos that will get you excited about teaching robotics. Take a look at these 11-minute videos:
You will find a wide variety of K-12 classroom resources as you explore the robotics collection from PBS Learning Media. Check out the videos, lessons, interactives, and supplemental teaching helps for educators. Here is just a sample:
NASA has some terrific resources to help you teach robotics. What is Robotics? is a site designed for grades 5-8 that includes links to other NASA pages. Learn about robots on the International Space Station and on Mars. This page is also available in a format for grades K-4.
NASA's SpacePlace is a site for kids that discusses the question of Why Do We Send Robots Into Space? It highlights some of the exciting new robots being developed for future planetary exploration.
Jet Propulsion Laboratory is NASA's lead center for robotic exploration. You may want to share Robotics at JPL with your students, and introduce them to cutting-edge robot innovations and developments. Go more in-depth at JPL's Mobility and Robotic Systems page.
National Geographic Kids has a terrific series of robot videos that elementary teachers may want to use with their students. These fun films showcase robots who fly, dance, play musical instruments, and play like pets.
Why should teachers use robots to teach STEM concepts in the classroom? Consider these seven reasons to include robotics study in your curriculum.
Ready Set Robot guides students through the steps of the design process to solve a problem by creating a robot.
It can be fascinating to students to learn about all the things robots can do. New robotic applications are developed every day! Here are just a few to share with your class:
LEGO Mindstorms offers lessons plans and other helps for middle-school teachers who want to use LEGO brand building materials for teaching about robots.
Robot firefighters? Robot fish that re-create extinct species? Challenge your students to discover new applications for robot technology and keep up on new developments in the robot world with this Live Science site. Robots in the News also reports on headline-making robots.
National Robotics Week, celebrated in April each year, offers lots of interesting features for STEM educators.