Sphero...it's a remote controlled glowing ball. It rolls. It makes cute sounds. It changes color. Why would you spend $125 on such a captivating piece of hardware? Aside from allowing the user to focus on hand-to-eye coordination, spatial orientation, and remote control through finger swipe, Sphero is a gateway gadget that accomplishes two great tasks: One, it gets my daughter interested in the mechanics of remote control objects. Two, it teachers her some basic programming, problem solving, and robotics control. Numerous apps allow for many different ways to pilot Sphero. As you can see from the photo, it's easy enough to be piloted by a five old. Equipped with a Sphero and an app-equipped iPod Touch, my daughter conquers a furniture-laden landscape, maneuvering around chairs, couches, and the occasional pile of toys. The user can string together some basic commands that make Sphero perform different tasks. This might entail driving in a square, changing color, or performing other maneuvers. Whatever the task, it introduces the concept of simple programming; a great starting point for blossoming geeks!
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AuthorTeacher, writer, technology advocate....with over 14 years of teaching experience, I am a go-to person for learning how to incorporate instructional technology in schools across Michigan. I have been a frequent technology consultant and presenter for Bay City Public Schools, the Michigan After School Association, and the Michigan Association of Computer Users and Learners. Like what you see? Leave a comment for drop me a line. ArchivesCategories |