Learn to Design and 3D Print in Multicolor

Course Description:

This STEAM course teaches Computer-Aided Design (CAD) using TinkerCAD and explores three professional methods for multi-color 3D printing. Students learn to create complex 3D models and master techniques like manual filament swaps, Automated Material Systems (AMS), and post-print assembly to produce multi-colored functional or decorative objects.

Take Home Element: Multicolor Name Tag, Thingiverse print and Game character

What You Will Learn

  • CAD Design: Mastery of the TinkerCAD interface for creating multi-layered designs, using holes for cutouts, and grouping objects to create complex 3D geometry.
  • Additive Manufacturing Techniques: Understanding the Slicer software (Cura/Bambu Studio) to schedule print pauses for filament swaps and designing objects specifically for multi-part post-print assembly.
  • Engineering for Efficiency: Analyzing print time and filament usage, including the waste (“poop”) generated by AMS systems, to make engineering decisions that balance aesthetics and cost.

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with core principles across Engineering Design, Technology, and Mathematics, specifically covering the following standards:

  • NGSS ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (iterating CAD design for printability);
  • NGSS K-2-ETS1-3: Analyze data from tests to determine similarities and differences (comparing AMS vs. filament swap efficiency);
  • ISTE 4.a: Students use a deliberate design process for generating ideas (using TinkerCAD);
  • CCSS-M MP.5: Use appropriate tools strategically (using TinkerCAD and Cura);
  • ISTE 5.c: Breaking down a large problem into smaller parts (designing models for multi-part assembly).

My First Robot with mTiny

Course Description:

Embark on coding adventures with the mTiny robot. This course introduces young learners to the fundamentals of coding through story-based missions and interactive screenless play.

Optional Take Home Element: mTiny Robot Discovery Kit complete with Smart Coding Pen, Map Tiles, Coloring Expansion and Accessories.

What You Will Learn

  • Unplugged Programming: The core concepts of Sequencing, Debugging, and Control Flow (loops/repeats) without the need for a screen, tablet, or external code editor.
  • Computational Communication: Using Input and Action Cards to provide clear, sequential instructions to a robot, focusing on the precision of algorithms.
  • Social-Emotional Modeling: Connecting code to human behavior by modeling how mTiny (Panda) changes its facial expressions and movements in response to real-world social scenarios (e.g., losing ice cream, building a sandcastle).

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with foundational skills across Computer Science, Engineering Design, and Social/Emotional Learning, specifically covering the following standards:

  • CSTA 1A-AP-08: Model the way programs store and manipulate data (using repeat/loop cards); 
  • CSTA 1A-AP-10: Develop programs with sequences and simple loops; 
  • ISTE 5.a: Formulate problem definitions (solving mazes); 
  • ISTE 6.b: Practice responsible digital citizenship (implied through classroom and emotional expectations);
  • NGSS K-ETS1-1: Ask questions, make observations, and gather information (troubleshooting why the robot didn’t reach the bamboo).

Mission to Mars with Codey Rocky using Block Code or Python

Course Description:

Embark on a Martian adventure by guiding Codey Rocky through thrilling missions using block-based or Python coding. Discover the fundamentals of programming and problem-solving in a space-themed exploration.

Optional Take Home Element: Fully Programmable Codey Rocky Robot with Color Sensing Cards

What You Will Learn

  • Dual-Language Coding: Develop proficiency in fundamental programming concepts (Events, Loops, Conditionals) with the choice to apply them in a Block Code environment or using real-world Python syntax.
  • Physics and Geometry in Motion: Conduct real-world experiments to calculate and map time delays to distance and degrees of turn. Apply mathematical operators (multiplication, division) within code to control precise geometric movement (squares, circles).
  • Sensor-Based Decision Making: Program the rover to use its Color Infrared Sensor to detect and report on both obstacles (for avoidance) and color targets (for mineral identification), demonstrating computational logic.

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with core principles across Computer Science, Engineering Design, and Mathematics, specifically covering the following standards:

  • CSTA 2-AP-17: Develop programs that use procedures to organize code (using functions);
  • CSTA 3A-AP-16: Represent data in Python; NGSS ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (iterating code to solve the maze);
  • CCSS-M MP.5: Use appropriate tools strategically (using a protractor/tape measure for coding inputs) ;
  • ISTE 5.b: Collect and analyze data to identify solutions (measuring distance and angles to inform movement code).

Create a Mobile App with Thunkable

Course Description:

Step into the world of app development by designing and creating your own mobile application. This course covers the basics of design, user experience, and coding, culminating in a functional app that students can use.

Take Home Element: Custom Mobile App (Android – Installable APK / iOS Viewable via Thunkable app)

What You Will Learn

  • User Interface (UI) Design: How to select complementary colors (using the color wheel) and appropriate fonts to create a recognizable and emotionally effective mobile app brand.
  • Event-Driven Programming: Using event handlers (like When Button Click or When Screen Opens) and conditional logic (If/Then/Else) to create interactivity and control app flow.
  • App Lifecycle Management: Navigating the complete process of app development—from initial project setup and component design to testing, debugging, and deploying the finished application to a mobile device.

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with core principles across Computer Science, Arts, and Engineering Design, specifically covering the following standards:

  • CSTA 1A-AP-14: Debug programs to ensure they run as intended;
  • CSTA 1B-AP-09: Create programs that use variables to store and modify data (for scores/counters/image sheets);
  • ISTE 4.a: Students know and use a deliberate design process (the Design-Develop-Debug-Deploy cycle);
  • CCSS-M MP.4: Model with mathematics (using variables to track game scores);
  • NGSS ETS1.A: Define and delimit Engineering Problems (defining design constraints for a mobile app).

Build and Code a Robotic Car with Arduino (Kit Included)

Course Description:

This course teaches fundamental robotics, mechatronics, and computational thinking using a block based coding IDE. Students assemble a car chassis, motors, and a motor driver with an Arduino microcontroller. They then program an ultrasonic sensor to detect obstacles and use conditional logic to autonomously guide the robot around barriers.

Take Home Element: Fully Programmable Obstacle Avoiding Robotic Car with Arduino Microcontroller, Ultrasonic Sensor, Motors and Drivers.

What You Will Learn

  • Motor Control Logic: How to use digital HIGH and LOW signals in specific combinations to control the direction and speed (PWM) of two DC motors.
  • Sensor-Based Autonomy: Programming an ultrasonic sensor (Trig/Echo) to gather data (distance) and use conditional statements to make real-time avoidance decisions.
  • Systems Integration: Assembling and wiring complex electronic components (Microcontroller, Motor Driver, and Sensor) to a battery pack to create a complete, functioning robotic system.

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with core principles across Computer Science, Engineering Design, and Physics, specifically covering the following standards:

  • CSTA 1B-AP-15: Test and debug a program (addressing false sensor readings);
  • CSTA 2-AP-13: Decompose problems into smaller manageable subproblems (building movement tables);
  • NGSS ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (improving the autonomous algorithm);
  • CCSS-M MP.4: Model with mathematics (using analog values 0-255 for speed control);
  • ISTE 5.d: Develop and employ models and simulations (using the robot to model autonomous vehicles).

Build and Code a Smart Recycling Can with Arduino (Kit Included)

Course Description:

This course teaches mechatronics and introductory block-based coding by challenging students to build a functional, small-scale recycling bin. Students assemble the bin and code an ultrasonic sensor and a servo motor to create an automatic, hands-free lid that opens when motion is detected.

Take Home Element: Smart Recycling Can with Programmable Arduino Nano Microcontroller, Ultrasonic Sensor and Micro Servo.

What You Will Learn

  • Mechatronics & Control Systems: Wiring and programming a servo motor to control precise movement (lid opening and closing) based on a digital signal.
  • Sensor Integration: How to interpret data from an ultrasonic sensor (Trig and Echo pins) to accurately calculate distance and use that data for real-time autonomous decision-making.
  • Engineering Design & CAD: Designing and fabricating custom attachments using a CAD tool (like TinkerCAD) and relating the design back to the physical product and its function.

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with core principles across Computer Science, Engineering Design, and Science, specifically covering the following standards:

  • CSTA 1B-AP-13: Use an iterative process to plan a program; 
  • CSTA 1B-AP-15: Test and debug a program; 
  • NGSS ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (improving the code to ignore 0cm false positives); 
  • ISTE 5.c: Develop and employ models and simulations (using code to model real-world automation);
  • NGSS ESS3.A: Natural Resources (learning the importance of recycling and resource management).

Build and Code an RGB LED Moon Lamp with Arduino (Kit Included)

Course Description:

This course teaches fundamental concepts in electronics, engineering assembly, and introductory block-based coding using Arduino Microcontrollers. Students build a physical lamp and learn to program its RGB LED lights using loops, variables, and logic to create complex, personalized animations.

Take Home Element: Moon Lamp with Arduino Nano Microcontroller and Fully Programmable LED Strip

What You Will Learn:

  • Hardware Control: How to correctly wire and integrate an RGB LED strip and a microcontroller (Arduino Nano) for dynamic light effects.
  • Computational Modeling: Using variables to store data (like light brightness or color offset) and applying the Modulo function to create continuous, looping light animations.
  • Engineering Assembly: Safely assembling a multi-part base using components like screws, hex nuts, and laser-cut wood pieces, reinforcing precision and structural design.

State Standards Alignment

This course aligns with core principles across Computer Science, Engineering Design, and Mathematics, specifically covering the following standards:

  • CSTA 1A-AP-10: Develop programs with sequences and simple loops;
  • CSTA 1B-AP-09: Create programs that use variables to store and modify data;
  • NGSS ETS1.B: Developing Possible Solutions (students test and modify designs);
  • CCSS-M MP.4: Model with mathematics (using the Modulo function to model continuous effects);
  • ISTE 5.d: Develop and employ models and simulations (using code to model light patterns).