The Edison V3 Robot is a revolutionary tool designed to bring coding to life for K-12 students.
This versatile, sturdy, and user-friendly robot is a perfect companion for classrooms, engaging students in hands-on STEM learning experiences.
Whether you're a teacher looking to introduce coding to young learners or an educator aiming to deepen programming skills in older students, Edison robot V3 is your go-to tool.
Key Features of Edison V3
- Ready to Use: Edison V3 arrives fully assembled and includes an integrated USB charging cable. This feature ensures that setup is quick and hassle-free, allowing more time for learning and exploration.
- Seamless Connectivity: The USB cable not only charges the robot but also facilitates easy program downloads from any computer. This dual functionality streamlines the process and reduces the need for additional accessories.
- Rechargeable Convenience: With its internal rechargeable battery, Edison V3 eliminates the interruptions caused by battery changes, providing up to 60 minutes of continuous driving time.
- Multiple Programming Options: Edison V3 supports diverse programming methods, including paper barcodes and three coding languages: EdBlocks, EdScratch, and EdPy. This variety makes it suitable for students at all skill levels.
- Browser-Compatible Coding: The robot's coding environments are accessible directly through any web browser. No additional software or app installations are required, making it easy to integrate into various learning setups.
- Expandable Design: Edison V3 is compatible with LEGO bricks, EdCreate Packs, and the EdSketch pen holder, allowing for creative expansions and customized projects.
Why is Edison robot used in the field of education?
1. Accessibility and Inclusivity
Edison V3 is built with accessibility in mind. It comes fully assembled and ready to use straight out of the box, which means no tedious setup is required. This plug-and-play functionality ensures that all students, regardless of their technical background, can start learning immediately. The inclusion of multiple programming languages—EdBlocks for beginners, EdScratch for intermediate users, and EdPy for advanced coders—caters to diverse learning needs and paves the way for progressive learning.
2. Hands-On Learning Experience
Robotics in education isn’t just about coding; it’s about understanding the practical application of technology. Edison V3’s rich set of sensors, including sound, light, and line tracking, allows students to engage in hands-on projects that demonstrate real-world applications of STEM concepts. For instance, students can program Edison to navigate a maze using line tracking or respond to claps using its sound sensor. These interactive activities make learning fun and memorable, fostering a deeper understanding of technical principles.
3. Promotes Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
Edison V3 encourages students to think critically and solve problems creatively. When students program the robot to perform tasks, they engage in a process of trial and error, debugging, and optimization. This iterative process helps develop essential problem-solving skills. By challenging students to find solutions to complex problems, Edison V3 fosters a growth mindset and prepares them for future challenges in technology and engineering fields.
4. Supports a Range of Learning Environments
In today’s education landscape, flexibility is crucial. Edison V3 supports both traditional classroom settings and remote or hybrid learning environments. Its compact size and rechargeable battery make it easy for students to use the robot at home or in school. Additionally, the coding environments are browser-based, which means no additional software installations are needed. This compatibility with any computer setup makes it easy for educators to integrate Edison V3 into their teaching, regardless of the learning environment.
5. Encourages Collaboration and Teamwork
Group activities and projects are integral to modern education, and Edison V3 is perfect for collaborative learning. Students can collaborate to construct and program their robots, exchanging ideas and gaining insights from one another. This collaborative approach not only enhances their technical skills but also promotes teamwork and communication, which are vital competencies in any career.
6. Scalable and Expandable
The versatility of Edison V3 extends beyond its programming capabilities. Its design allows for creative expansions using LEGO bricks, EdCreate Packs, and the EdSketch pen holder. This flexibility enables educators to scale projects according to their curriculum and students’ skill levels. From simple line-following robots to complex robotic arms, the possibilities are endless, making Edison V3 a long-term asset in any educational program.
Getting Started with Edison V3
The Edison V3 arrives in a reusable orange cardboard box that doubles as a storage case.
Inside, you’ll find the robot and some sample barcodes, ready for immediate use. The USB-A cable included in the package serves dual purposes: charging the internal battery and downloading programs from computers.
Maximizing Classroom Efficiency
Edison V3's internal battery simplifies classroom management. Teachers can use the EdCharger to power up to five robots simultaneously between classes. While the robot turns off after five minutes of inactivity to conserve battery, students can manually switch it off to save more power.
Sensors That Bring Learning to Life
Despite its compact size, Edison V3 is packed with sensors. These include:
- Sound Sensor: Detects and responds to noises, like claps.
- Light Sensor: Senses visible and infrared light, enabling the robot to follow or avoid light sources.
- Clap Detector: Activates the robot with a simple clap.
- Line Tracking Sensor: Allows Edison to follow lines on the ground, making it perfect for navigating mazes or defined paths.
These sensors enhance the robot’s ability to interact with its environment, offering students endless possibilities for creative coding projects.
Easy Programming with Barcodes
Edison V3’s barcode scanning feature is an excellent way to introduce students to programming concepts. By scanning one of the 20 pre-printed barcodes, students can trigger various pre-set behaviors in the robot. This method is a great starting point for beginners, as it demonstrates how robots can follow commands before students dive into writing their own code.
Transitioning to On-Screen Coding
As students grow more comfortable, they can transition from barcode scanning to on-screen coding. Connecting Edison V3 to a computer is straightforward with the permanently attached USB cable. For older models, an EdComm cable and audio jack connection are used. These coding environments—EdBlocks, EdScratch, and EdPy—cater to different age groups and skill levels.
Exploring Coding Environments
EdBlocks
- Ideal for beginners, this drag-and-drop interface uses icons to build programs. It's intuitive enough for children as young as seven to start creating their own code.
- You can access EdBlocks online at www.edblocksapp.com
EdScratch
- This environment offers a more advanced, block-based coding experience. Edscratch is suitable for students aged 10 and above, providing more complex functions and the ability to create detailed programs.
- You can access EdScratch online at www.edscratchapp.com
EdPy
- For advanced users, EdPy introduces text-based programming in Python. This environment is perfect for students aged 13 and up who are ready to tackle real-world coding languages.
- You can access EdPy online at www.edpyapp.com
Hybrid and Remote Learning
Edison V3's compact design and extensive online resources make it ideal for both in-class and remote learning. Students can continue their coding projects from home, accessing a wealth of activities and lessons on the Microbric website.
Teacher Support and Training
To ensure educators can make the most of Edison V3, the Edison team offers extensive support and resources. These include integration tips for classroom STEAM lessons, programming guides, and alignment with curricular standards.
Tips for Optimal Use
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent sensor interference.
- Start line tracking on a white background.
- Use dark, clear lines for barcodes on non-glossy paper.
- Include specific commands in programs for sensors to track lines or detect obstacles.
Maintaining Your Edison V3
If Edison V3 doesn't drive straight, calibrate its wheels using the provided barcode. For obstacle detection, ensure the robot's sensors are recalibrated and that obstacles are appropriately sized and opaque.
Conclusion
Edison V3 Robot is a powerful tool for bringing coding to life in K-12 education. With its easy setup, diverse programming options, and robust support system, it equips students with the skills they need for the future. Explore the possibilities with Edison V3 and watch your students’ creativity and technical skills soar.