Perry Upper Elementary 6th grade STEM students recently completed a hands-on project using Ozobot robots, combining creativity, coding, and collaboration.
Working in small groups, students were tasked with designing a pathway that included five different successful codes for the Ozobot to follow, as well as two obstacles made from cardboard tubes. To meet the challenge, each group had to ensure their Ozobot started at a designated point, stayed on the pathway, and successfully navigated through to the end. While some groups created a specific finish line, others designed looping tracks that allowed the robots to travel continuously.
Ozobots are small, programmable robots that teach students the basics of coding through color-coded sequences and digital coding platforms. They provide an engaging way to explore problem-solving, logical thinking, and engineering design principles in the classroom.
Upper elementary STEM instructor Crystal Deken said the activity encouraged teamwork and creativity while allowing students to see the real-world applications of coding and robotics.
“This was a fun way for students to practice persistence and critical thinking,” she said. “They quickly discovered how even small changes in their pathway design could affect the outcome.”
The project is one of many hands-on learning experiences Perry students of all age groups participate in as part of the district’s commitment to STEM education and skill development.