Today, it has become fair to label STEM learning as a new trend for students everywhere. One branch of STEM that has the most fan following nowadays is the study of Robotics. STEM Robotics has experienced massive growth in the past few years. It has broken down the traditional ways of learning and conventional methods of practical learning. Robotics has taken students out of their comfort zones and to previously unreached levels of creativity and critical thinking. Robotics has helped students to improve their reasoning, ability to question, and cognitive abilities.
Many top schools have successfully integrated the basics of robotics in their school curriculums. Studying the basics of robotics are stepping stones to advanced STEM projects like building a model in programming or building AI applications. Let us look at a few tips on the basics of robotics for getting your child started in this futuristic field.
1) Learn Basic Coding
It is very important to understand that Robotics is a very complex and large sphere of study. And in the heart of this sphere, lies coding. Coding is the first skill kids will have to learn in order to master advanced robotics. Start from the very basics of a programming language. Python and C++ are the most popular programming languages for robotics. Basics of coding skills like variables, conditional statements, loops, etc. should be thorough. There are many affordable books and online courses that teach the basics of coding for kids. Even if your child does not pursue robotics as a career, learning coding will open up a lot of avenues for them in the future.
2) Learn Linear Algebra
It is an unfortunate phenomenon that many students dislike Mathematics and especially Algebra. While the many letters and equations can be overwhelming, if kids put effort and time into understanding linear algebra correctly, it is one of the most interesting subjects out there. Linear Algebra is the basis of Data Science, Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence too. You can ask for help from your Mathematics Professors, or watch online videos and courses to learn Linear Algebra deeply.
3) Know your Physics
Many key topics in robotics have their domain in Physics. Physics provide crucial knowledge about mechanics, material sciences, electrical circuits, energy, force, etc. that are the foundational aspects of robot building. Robotics deals with accurate positioning of certain and tweaking of delicate effectors, and hence it is necessary to know their programming and the mechanical movements of the same. There are several online courses specifically designed to learn physics concepts that apply to the field of robotics.
4) Investing in Robotic Kits
A small investment today can go a long way toward your child’s career development in Robotics. Most of the programmable robots for kids are pre-packed with interactive and informational study guides. In fact, if you want to learn the basics of programming or robotics, choosing the right toy itself can provide a huge boost. Robot kits are valuable tools for learning physics, engineering, logic, electronics, and developing your child’s creative thinking. It enhances self-learning. Robotic kits also explain programming in simple ways to your kids.
5) Go for Online Robotics Courses
With the huge growth in the fields of coding, programming, AI and Robotics, may educational institutions have understood the need to fix the gaps in the traditionally existing curriculums. These Edutech organizations are changing the face of education. Many such companies offer online courses in Robotics that are affordable. They are specifically designed for kids to learn at their own pace and level of understanding. These courses are personalized, up-to-date with state of the art technology and are available for any support 24/7. Right from learning to code up to building a full-fledged robot, these online courses will guide you.
6) Be a part of the community
Many schools and neighbourhoods have clubs that support kids and students who are in the field of technology. These clubs are equipped with the knowledge and resources that can not only guide you through your learning process but also help you have a sense of belonging. Joining a Robotics Club can help you learn the importance of discussions, teamwork, and brainstorming. It will help you recognize your strengths and areas that need work. You can share resources with each other. And if there is no such club near you, start a new one! There are also many online forums and pages that comprise of robotics fanatics who can be informational and supportive.
7) Be Ready to Make Mistakes
Every beginner has a lot of excitement before starting to learn Robotics Basics. But this curiosity and enthusiasm shouldn’t be misplaced. Recognize that you cannot learn everything overnight. You may take days to understand a single concept. You may not get enough support from around you. You will have to start with simplistic models before moving on to robots that can multitask. You will fail numerous times, but that would be a part of the process. Do not start learning with a mind full of idealistic conditions. Keep an open mind.
