Southampton Elementary School Will Participate in 1,000 Robots Project

To satisfy her curiosity, Southampton Elementary School Technology Education teacher Julia Best clicked a link on the Computer Science Teachers Association's (CSTA) website and ended up excitedly applying for the BirdBrain Technologies' 1,000 Robot Project.  The goal of the project is to catalyze coding and computer science experiences for students utilizing "Finch" robots.  As a result of her successful application, SES will be receiving 50 "Finch" robots this April.
The robots are specially designed to introduce the art of programming, using over a dozen programming languages and environments, to students as young as eight years old.  For more information on the "Finch" robot, click here.
Ms. Best indicated in her application that the robots would be used primarily by her fourth grade technology education students who will then use their expertise to host visiting students, teachers, parents/guardians from throughout the district and perhaps neighboring schools.  Kindergarten through third grade classes will have opportunities to interact with the robots during their time in Ms. Best's classroom, as well.  She is also looking forward to having Southampton Intermediate School and Southampton High School students get involved in various ways.
Ms. Best's plans include hosting a "Night of Programming and Robotics" for the community to celebrate computer science education and to help her meet her goal of breaking down gender-based stereotypes in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education.  
Southampton Elementary School is looking forward to welcoming its robotic visitors this spring.