Resources
Here you will find MacICT’s papers, articles, publications and curated resources on a wide variety of ICT themes.
Robotics
MacICT has been using robotics in its programs since its inception. Check out these great resources.
Getting started
New Zealand - Ministry of Education
A fantastic repository of resources for teachers including advice on how to get started with robotics in the classroom, readings, guides and more. Read more…
Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy
“The Robotics Academy is committed to using the motivational effects of robotics to excite students about science and technology. We are an educational outreach of Carnegie Mellon University, and part of the university’s world-renowned Robotics Institute.” Read more…
Tufts Center for Engineering Education and Outreach
“The aim of this site is to inspire and support teachers to go beyond the basics in bringing LEGO-based engineering to all students. New to LEGO robotics? Let us help you Get started! Want an idea for a challenge to give your students? Look here for Inspiration.” Read more…
Learning Links to the NSW K - 10 Syllabuses for the Australian Curriculum
MacICT has developed comprehensive documents detailing how robotics links to learning outcomes in the the syllabuses. You can download the documents below. There is one for Early Stage 1 to Stage 3, and one for Stages 4-5.
“Integrating robotics in education is a highly engaging medium, and when it is implemented using an imaginative, student centered pedagogical approach it can lay down foundations learning, innovation and change in 21st century classrooms.”
Cathie Howe
MacICT Centre Manager
My Robot is Better Than Your Robot
Science is rock and roll. Find out why geeks are the coolest people from will.i.am, Justin Timberlake, Snoop Dogg, Miley Cyrus, Justin Bieber, Bono, Steven Tyler, Jack Black, Josh Duhamel and more!
Communities
Need help? Ask for ideas from real communities of teachers.
NSW DoE Yammer
NSW Department of Education has a Yammer network for its staff. You can join groups, post questions, find resources and get NSW DoE specific information on a range of topics. Check out the Robotics Group and connect with your colleagues. You’ll find a link to Yammer on the NSW DoE Staff Portal. Read more…
LEGO Engineering Facebook Group
“This group is intended to inspire and support classroom teachers and anyone else interested in learning about and with LEGO-based engineering.” Read more…
LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Google+ Community
A Google+ Community for sharing LEGO Ev3 projects. Not necessarily for education only, but a great resource to see what’s possible with this kit. Read more…
Blog Posts
Read some of MacICT’s posts on robotics in the classroom
Spotlight #5 Robotics, After School VCs, Mission Possible, What’s on this week
Need inspiration for term 2. Our Robotics showcase and afterschool professional learning program are the perfect solution. 5th April – Robotics Showcase This term’s MacICT’s 2011 Robotics (Bee-Bots) Project will culminate when teachers and students working with the...
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Lego NXT robots
The NXT robot is the most advanced and sophisticated of the robotic programs offered at the Macquarie ICT Innovations Centre. Helping students’ to grasp science, technology, engineering, and maths concepts within a curriculum context, the NXT robot offers a hands-on...
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Pro-Bots
The Pro-Bot is the ‘big brother’ of the Bee-Bot and allows more complex programming involving fully programmable distances, degrees of turn and use of sensors. It includes a simple pen mechanism and a standard felt tip pen that can be used to draw routes...
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