Robotic Duck Douglas Durham & Ashley Brown, University of Georgia Introduction Materials Procedure Standards Addressed Reflections Schools often use STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) related classes to overall learning experience for children. The concepts learned in the STEM- related activities serve as basic building blocks for useful skills that will serve children in their adult life. These concepts should be integrated into the curriculum for higher grade levels, beginning in 4th and 5th grade. By learning how to construct and program a robot, children are exposed to the Engineering Design Process, which helps them to think about problems from a more scientific perspective. This activity was enriching, educational, and most of all, enjoyable. It helped us learn new skills like computer programming while simultaneously developing a better understanding of the engineering design process. Due to the complexity involved in assembling and programming the robots, we recommend that this activity be geared towards upper-level elementary school students. Simpler robots can be used for younger children, although adult assistance will be needed for computer programming. The robots can be incorporated into lessons involving literature, history, and mathematics. Caption for your photo The robot was constructed using materials included in the “My Robot Time ” assembly kit in a complex 43-step process. Materials included: Lego Pieces Wheels IR Sensors Battery Powered Engines Speakers Touch Sensors Main Board 1. Select robot out of the “My Robot Time” instruction manual to construct. 2. Locate parts for selected robot. 3. Assemble according to steps outlined in “My Robot Time” manual. 4. Download robot program to your computer. 5. Program robot using software, including movements, sounds, and sensory settings. 6. Test robot 7. Make any necessary modifications S3CS3. Students will use tools and instruments for observing, measuring, and manipulating objects in scientific activities utilizing safe laboratory procedures. a. Choose appropriate common materials for making simple mechanical constructions and repairing things. b. Use computers, cameras and recording devices for capturing information. S3CS4. Students will use ideas of system, model, change, and scale in exploring scientific and technological matters. a. Observe and describe how parts influence one another in things with many parts. Real World Applications Vehicle Motion Sensors: For preoccupied drivers, there are sensors that come standard in some car models that are able to warn the driver if they are about to back into something. Automatic Doors: A staple of the modern world, automatic doors open and close based on whether or not they sense movement. Sanitation: Automatic faucets, soap and paper towel dispensers are commonplace in restrooms and help to decrease the spread of germs. The applications of computer programming are virtually endless. Robots can be programmed to do almost anything, from performing open heart surgery to delivering a pair of jeggings you just bought off Amazon. This is our completed Duck robot. Quack Quack!