Learning with LEGOs
Trending
LEWISTOWN -- Mechatronics, robotics and STEM -- oh my!
Mifflin County High School students partnered to bring a STEM coding experience to their peers at Mifflin County Middle School last week in recognition of the National Hour of Code.
Students were tasked with putting LEGO projects in motion using hubs and sensors provided by Mifflin County High School teacher Rebecca Conner-Miller. Using a LEGO Education app on an iPad, students were able to motorize projects, as well as add lights and music.
The first build was a carousel; when completed, they were free to let their imaginations run wild and build whatever their hearts desired.
Mifflin County Academy early childhood education and mechatronics students assisted middle school students throughout the week where they were given equal time and opportunity to bring their creativity to life with guidance from teachers Valerie Baker and Tyler Snyder.
Mifflin County Middle School teacher Lanielle Reese said she felt the project was enriching for students.
"My favorite part of this experience is watching my students' faces light up when they successfully build and motorize their LEGO structures," Reese said. "I am able to see their confidence levels increase as the period goes on. They start out a little intimidated; then, once things start to come together, they begin customizing their structures and taking the initiative to create their own. By the end of the period, they are adding lights and sounds, and things are spinning all over the place!"
Conner-Miller appreciated the joint effort between schools.
"Through this collaborative opportunity, all sixth and seventh grade students in MCSD have the opportunity to experience robotics and coding in a hands-on, educational and fun way," she said. "This event showcases the power of collaboration. It would not have been possible without the work and effort of the MCHS STEM interns, Academy's early childhood education students and mechatronics students, the MCMS computer teachers and the wonderful students at MCMS."
The teachers felt the project bridges the gap between learning in the classroom and real-life applications, thus opening the door to various collaborative opportunities.