EP 10: Robotics and Making at BFIS and Renaissance College

Building robotics experiences has become a priority at BFIS and Renaissance College to equip students with essential skills in a technology-driven world. Benjamin has developed the Middle and High School Robotics program at BFIS, observing significant growth in students' learning and development over the past two years. Cora highlighted in a recent podcast with Tricia Friedman the debate around zero or low-tech in schools, emphasizing the need for balanced priorities between tech and non-tech learning environments. Technology plays a crucial role in enhancing experiences across various professional fields, including music, film, theater, and arts. This integration offers significant learning opportunities for students and unexpected interdisciplinary connections. To keep pace with technological advancements, ongoing teacher learning is essential. Positions like Benjamin and Cora's can bridge the gap, helping schools maximize staff potential in integrating technology effectively. Ethics in robotics and AI is a critical consideration, especially as applications range from military uses to assistive technologies for the blind. Educators must address these ethical issues in an accessible manner for students. The accessibility of robotics as an educational subject is broadening, with efforts to cast a wider net for new learners. Decisions on whether robotics should be taught within regular classes or as a separate curriculum component are ongoing, with discussions about the most effective integration methods.