Coding and Robotics for Teachers Course

Lesson 1 • What Is Computational Thinking

Introduces decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms as the four pillars of computational thinking. Anchors all subsequent coding and robotics instruction to this framework.

Lesson 2 • Introduction to Robotics Hardware

Surveys sensors, actuators, controllers, and chassis components found in classroom robots. Connects physical hardware to the software concepts introduced earlier in the chapter.

Lesson 3 • Overview of Coding Concepts

Covers sequences, loops, conditionals, and variables as universal coding building blocks. Establishes shared vocabulary educators will use across all grade-level activities.

Lesson 1 • Navigating a Block-Based Environment

Orients educators to the interface, block palette, and stage area of a visual coding tool. Builds confidence before introducing programming logic in later sections.

Lesson 2 • Designing Learner-Facing Activities

Applies block-based skills to create structured coding tasks with clear learning objectives. Prepares educators to deliver guided and open-ended projects in the classroom.

Lesson 3 • Variables and Simple Data

Demonstrates how to create, set, and modify variables within block-based projects. Connects abstract data concepts to visible, interactive outcomes learners can observe.

Lesson 4 • Adding Conditionals and Events

Introduces if/else blocks and event-driven triggers to create interactive programs. Expands student project complexity and prepares teachers to scaffold branching logic.

Lesson 1 • Introductory Debugging Strategies

Builds systematic error-finding skills using print statements, error messages, and logic tracing. Equips educators to guide learners through frustration during debugging sessions.

Lesson 2 • Functions and Reusable Code

Introduces defining and calling functions to organise and reuse code efficiently. Prepares educators to model modular thinking and clean coding habits for learners.

Lesson 3 • Core Syntax and Data Types

Covers print statements, variables, strings, integers, and floats as foundational syntax elements. Gives educators the minimum viable vocabulary to write and read functional scripts.

Lesson 4 • From Blocks to Text Code

Maps familiar block structures to equivalent text-based syntax to ease the transition. Reduces anxiety by showing direct parallels between visual and written code.

Lesson 1 • Classroom Robot Management

Addresses storage, maintenance, sharing protocols, and learner safety around robot hardware. Ensures sustainable, organised use of robot kits across multiple classes.

Lesson 2 • Setting Up Robot Hardware

Covers unboxing, charging, pairing, and initial configuration of classroom robot kits. Prevents common setup failures that derail lessons before coding begins.

Lesson 3 • Using Sensors in Programmes

Integrates distance, colour, and touch sensors into robot programmes using conditional logic. Extends Chapter 2 and 3 conditionals into real-world physical computing contexts.

Lesson 4 • Basic Movement and Navigation

Programmes robots to move forward, backward, and turn using timed and distance-based commands. Builds direct connection between code instructions and observable physical outcomes.

Lesson 1 • Establishing Technology Norms

Co-creates and enforces agreements about device use, screen time, and responsible handling of hardware. Norms built with learners increase buy-in and reduce off-task behaviour.

Lesson 2 • Handling Technical Failures Gracefully

Prepares educators with backup plans, triage protocols, and calm-response strategies for tech failures. Reduces lesson derailment when devices, robots, or networks malfunction.

Lesson 3 • Managing Group Work and Roles

Structures collaborative coding teams with defined roles to distribute responsibility and reduce conflict. Prepares educators to facilitate productive pair programming and team robotics challenges.

Lesson 4 • Pacing and Transitions in Tech Lessons

Designs lesson timelines with explicit transition signals, save checkpoints, and cleanup routines. Prevents the common problem of learners losing work or running out of time.

Lesson 1 • Scaffolding for Diverse Learners

Adapts coding and robotics tasks for learners with varying abilities, language backgrounds, and learning needs. Ensures equitable access to computational learning experiences.

Lesson 2 • Cross-Curricular Project Design

Creates multi-subject projects that use robotics or coding as the unifying vehicle for learning. Builds educator capacity to collaborate with colleagues across disciplines.

Lesson 3 • Unplugged Activities as Bridges

Uses screen-free activities to teach coding logic when devices are unavailable or as concept primers. Expands the educator's toolkit beyond hardware-dependent instruction.

Lesson 4 • Designing Coding-Integrated Lessons

Applies backward design to build lessons where coding serves a clear subject-area learning goal. Prevents coding from becoming an isolated activity disconnected from core content.

Lesson 1 • Assessing and Reporting Coding Work

Addresses how to translate assessment rubric scores and portfolio evidence into grades within school reporting systems. Helps educators communicate coding progress clearly to learners and families.

Lesson 2 • Formative Assessment Strategies

Introduces exit tickets, peer code reviews, and live observation protocols for ongoing feedback. Gives educators low-prep tools to monitor understanding during coding sessions.

Lesson 3 • Principles of Coding Assessment

Establishes why traditional tests poorly capture coding competency and what valid alternatives look like. Frames the assessment design work that follows in this chapter.

Lesson 4 • Portfolio and Process Documentation

Guides educators in collecting iterative drafts, reflection notes, and final projects as evidence of growth. Shifts focus from single-point grades to longitudinal learning documentation.

Lesson 1 • Integrating Advanced Coding Features

Introduces lists, dictionaries, and basic APIs as tools for more sophisticated learner projects. Builds on text-based fundamentals from Chapter 3 to extend project complexity.

Lesson 2 • Coaching the Design Process

Equips educators to guide learners through ideation, prototyping, testing, and iteration cycles. Shifts the educator role from instructor to facilitator of learner-led inquiry.

Lesson 3 • Planning and Running a Showcase

Organises logistics, presentation formats, and audience engagement for a learner coding or robotics showcase. Provides a motivating endpoint that raises the stakes and quality of learner work.

Lesson 4 • Project-Based Learning with Coding

Applies project-based learning principles to design open-ended coding challenges with real-world relevance. Moves learners from skill practice to authentic problem-solving and creation.