What’s cooler than a waterproof, app-enabled, gyroscopic robot? A waterproof, app-enabled, gyroscopic robot with a clear outer shell that lets you see inside! The SPRK and SPRK+ by Sphero do just that. The Sphero SPRK collection, by the makers of the popular BB-8 and Sphero 2.0, is designed with the STEM classroom in mind. The transparent tennis-ball sized robot is Bluetooth enabled with a 100 foot range, can roll up to 4.5mph, and is completely waterproof (and floats) and programmable.
SPRK can be coded and programmed to do all sorts of things using the Lighting Lab app that is compatible with Apple, Android, Kindle, and Chromebook. This app is full of all kinds of coding based investigation activities that range from being simple enough for kindergartners, using drop down coding, to challenging enough for older students using C-based language called OVAL. From modeling the solar system to navigating a maze, there is so much to do on the app.
What makes it even cooler is the collaboration aspect. Sphero users from all over the world can make and upload different activities, including other students and teachers. It even has classroom support with student login options that let you assign tasks, and check progress in real time. These robots are even offered as class sets that come with everything you need to get started in the classroom (the original SPRK is currently on sale for $799.99 for 12).
Want to use The Force for science? The new SPRK+ is fully compatible with the Star Wars Force Band, originally designed for use with the Sphero BB-8, that lets you control the robot with a flick of the wrist. Learn STEM you will, young Jedi.
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