What's included
4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks
of teacher support1 year access
to the contentProjects
1 hour per week. 3-6 throughout the classGrading
I can supply grades, feedback, certificate of completion, etc. upon request.Class Experience
US Grade 3 - 7
Beginner Level
Students will learn how to program a virtual VEX robot to perform various "Missions on Mars" using a programming interface based on Scratch (no previous Scratch knowledge necessary). For each class, the teacher will introduce the lesson, and then model it using screen sharing. Students can work along as the teacher demonstrates by watching, pausing, and rewinding the video as they complete the tasks on the Vex VR website. Students will be encouraged to download their code and submit it or send a screenshot. Other students will be encouraged to help with troubleshooting and problem-solving ideas. My teaching style is structured, but also informal and flexible. I will encourage students to ask questions or to share their ideas and solutions after viewing each lesson. This is very much a hands-on "watch and try" format. I have extensive experience working with all types of learners and my classes are autism/ADHD/LD-friendly and open to all learners. There is very minimal reading involved, so this is an ideal class for students with reading challenges. Students will need to know how to type in a URL to get to the site we will be using and how to click and drag-and-drop on their device. This programming website works on many platforms: Windows, Mac, Chromebook, iPad or Android tablet. Students will receive a code to give the access to ALL of the playgrounds on this site and they will be able to use these beyond this class. The only homework is to try to projects shown in the video and turn in code or screenshots, share their experiences, offer suggestions, ask questions, etc. I offer more formal assessments or grades by request for those who need them for transcripts, reimbursements, etc.
Learning Goals
Students will learn to develop programs with sequences and simple loops and to problem-solve.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Lesson 1
Code the VR Hero Robot to collect samples and rescue
the Rover on the Stage 1 Field.
Lesson 2:
Lesson 2
Code the VR Hero Robot to deliver samples to the Lab
on the Stage 2 Field.
Lesson 3:
Lesson 3
Code the VR Hero Robot to clear the Landing Site and
lift the Rocket Ship on the Stage 3 Field.
Lesson 4:
Lesson 4
Code the VR Hero Robot to deliver fuel cells on the
Stage 4 Field.
Other Details
Learning Needs
I welcome all learners to my classes. There is not a lot of reading involved in this course. I am a SPED teacher with experience working with students with learning differences, ADHD, dyslexia, ASD, and more.
Parental Guidance
We will be using VR.VEX.COM online programming site as well as other educational materials by VEX Robotics.
Pre-Requisites
Basic computer skill to go to a web address, use a mouse, etc.
Supply List
Computer or tablet that can access the vr.vex.com website. Students will receive a code to give the access to ALL of the playgrounds on this site and they will be able to use these beyond this class.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Sources
VR.VEX.COM website and VEX Robotics Educational materials. Students will receive a code to give the access to ALL of the playgrounds on this site and they will be able to use these beyond this class.
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Teaching Certificates
Texas Teaching Certificate in Special Education
Indiana Teaching Certificate
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Wilkes University
Bachelor's Degree from Ball State University
I am a Certified Robotics Instructor (VEX Robotics). I have taught VEX robotics programming since 2013 to students in public and private school settings and online since 2018.
I have 5 public school teaching certifications/licenses:
Technology Education. Grades 6-12. Expires 7/31/2023 (Texas)
Technology Applications. Grades EC-12. Expires 7/31/2023 (Texas)
Special Education. Grades EC-12. Expires 7/31/2023 (Texas)
Computer Education. REPA 3, Grades 5-12. Expires 9/10/2023
(Indiana)
Technology Education. REPA 3, Grades 5-12. Expires 9/10/2023
(Indiana)
Reviews
Self-Paced Course
$19
weekly or $75 for all content4 pre-recorded lessons
4 weeks of teacher support
Choose your start date
1 year of access to the content
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Ages: 8-13