Blue-Bots This set contains TTS’s updated version of the Bee-Bot: Blue-Bots. The main difference between Bee-Bots and Blue-Bots is the addition of bluetooth, which allows the user to program the robots with Tactiles or through an iPad app. Note, we do not supply an iPad with this loan, but you are free to use your school iPads. Blue-Bots also retain all of the functionilty of the originals, and can be used seperately from the Tactiles or iPads.

Using the Blue Bot with Tactiles Turn you Tactile Reader On (at the back of the Reader). Sound is optional.

Turn on your Blue Bot and place next to the Tactile Reader. Press the blue ‘connect’ button (on the front of the Reader) to create a bluetooth connection. The Blue Bot will flash blue once it is connected. Ask pupils to check their Blue Bot flashes, otherwise they may have connected to another pupil’s Blue Bot.

Begin programming by laying out the tiles on the on the Reader. Be aware, you can use the Reader in landscape or portrait. The tiles are double sided (one side for landscape, and the other for portrait). Be consistent about which side you use it. Remind pupils to check their tiles all have the same symbol.

Once you’ve layed out your program tiles you can press the green button to run your algorithm. The tiles are great for debugging algorithms, as pupils can test their program and then edit it by moving the tiles.

London Connected Learning Centre

Email: [email protected] Tel: 0207 720 7514

Blue-Bots Using the Blue Bots with an iPad Both the robot and its accompanying app are really simple to use. Unlike the slightly confusing interface of the original Bee-Bot app, which didn’t display the instructions which had been given, the new app includes a drag and drop interface not unlike that of Scratch Junior. This allows users to review and debug their program to complete the challenges. Blue-Bots are also capable of turning 45 degrees, giving the user greater control. Though the app has a series of challenges you can use it is also possible to use the camera function of the iPad to import a new background image, connecting the virtual world of the iPad with the physical world of the robot. Even if you have Bee-Bots in your school the way in which the app scaffolds a variety of programming challenged makes it worth a look, as it may spark some new ideas about how to better use your existing equipment.

In your classroom Why not try: •

Using a gridded matt and encourage children to count the number of times they need to press the forward button to reach their destination.

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Building a maze using wooden blocks for chiildren to get through.

London Connected Learning Centre

Email: [email protected] Tel: 0207 720 7514