Division Training Workshop on Basic Robotics Applications: Arduino Microcontroller and Programming
Incorporating robotics science in education is becoming inevitable. It is also undeniable that in gaining students' attention, educators must shift to contemporary methods, and utilize different strategies to enhance the development of 21st Century Skills. The use of robotics in the classroom is one way of awakening students' interest in design, solving problems and creativity. Through robotics in the classroom, students learn how to express themselves, listen and relate to others— honing valuable life skills which are extremely important for students as they prepare to enter the 21st-century workforce.
Three-day hands-on training-workshop was conducted for the selected science teachers in Masbate City Division. Originally, the workshop planned to include students, but due to the pandemic restrictions, the training was attended only by selected science teachers both in secondary and elementary level.
The robotics workshop aimed to train teachers on the basics of robotics applications specifically in Arduino microcontrollers and programming, and use the knowledge gained from the hands-on activities in constructing Arduino-based projects that can be integrated in teaching science lessons and research. Following IATF health protocols and guidelines, the activity was conducted face-to-face at the MNCHS Library, Masbate City. It was participated in by thirty (30) teachers from both secondary and elementary level in the City Division of Masbate.
The training was conducted in line with the approved matrix. Training kits and printed handouts were provided for each participant. The opening program was graced by the enthusiastic Schools Division Superintendent, Bebiano I. Sentillas, and emphasized the need to incorporate robotics education in teaching science lessons. He also congratulated the teachers behind the winnings of several division, regional and national competitions in science. The Education Program Supervisor, Maam Jemnah A. Macabe, expressed her appreciation for the training and support of future science endeavors. The training manager, Sir Gerard Jan D. Ibañez, the Training Manager presented the orientation for the participants. The workshop was conducted for three days, with all the activities in the workshop completed as participants were able to submit the required output on time. Videos of each activity were submitted at the designated online links. To strengthen the collaboration, a group chat was created, and google classroom was established so that participants can easily access other related teaching materials.
In the post conference meeting, the suggestion to come up with another training course intended for students was considered, as well as the conduct of robotics fair, the establishment of robotics clubs in different city schools and, with the support of the newly established MNCHS Robotics Research and Development Center, Project GEAR and INSPIRE, it is expected that robotics education will be observed in the classroom environment in the years to come.