A New Tech Toy for the Toy Box......an OZOBOT!

I absolutely love techy toys! Especially ones that have a nice design, are fully functioning and deliver outstanding results.  That's what you get with Ozobot!   Ozobot (http://www.ozobot.com/) is a robot....a very small robot, that can be programmed either by using an iPad app (Free download) or by drawing thick lined tracks using a color scheme on a white piece of paper.  The color schemes can be printed from the webpage, as well as other pre-planned challenges to get started. Presently, the robots are $49.99 for one or $89.99 for a pair through Amazon.  Teams of 2 to 3 Students can work together to code a robot and play the game.

The iPad app allows the user to free draw, program the robot to 'dance', or create a path using a variety of directional blocks.  Each 'game' is challenging, requires strategic planning and is a lot of fun. I specifically like the music and the design of each program....very eye appealing, catchy and adds to the overall experience.

The Drawing option connects robot & creativity, interactively.  With black, red, blue & green thick-edged markers & the Ozobot's color scheme codes (found on their webpage), the user draws 'tracks' using the codes & the Ozobot moves in all directions, spins, changes colors, changes speed & more. Also challenging and a ton of fun, but adds that creative side to the robot experience that I like very much.

Ideally, this would be best rated for the older Students in 3rd through 5th Grades.  I was quickly impressed with this little gem and think it would be a perfect addition to the Robotics Unit in the Tech Lab, during Clubs, Centers or Free Play.


Robotic fun,
Elana Moore