How many kids are in a group
20

How was the Matatalab robot(s) used?
On the eve of Christmas we have included Tale-bot in activities dedicated to Christmas. To do this, we used the robot’s drawing function. Adults showed children how to install felt-tip markers on the robot. After that, the children independently installed everything necessary for the robot to be able to draw. When everything was ready, the children, with the help of adults, programmed the robot so that it could draw an image for Joseph and Mary. The image consisted of two lines and a circle. The children knew these geometric shapes and named them with easily. The result is showed on the uploaded photos. Based on the age of the children, also we have used different maps: shape monsters, fruits and veggie challenge, my five senses, counting game. Since the children of our class native language is Russian and they are learning Estonian, these maps help children in learning Estonian language. And for these activities we have used voice saving function.

What skills did it develop?
Observation skills, abstract thinking, logical thinking, logical connection, creativity, divergent thinking, comparison, innovation skills, mathematical skills.

What worked best and what was challenging?
The best is: – comfortable buttons for kids; – in manual coding (code function) the color bar allows children to see where the error is encoded and make corrections accordingly; – sound recording function helps in learning other languages; – large wheels on the robot allow it to be used on different surfaces (that is, a perfectly flat surface is not required for the robot to move); – emotional feedback that he gives to the child after each performed operation.

How did students respond?
Children very like emotional feedback of Tale-bot and they are happy to take part in activities with him. The robot does not seem difficult for children, so they are happy to learn it on their own.

Share your comments upon the class using Matatalab
The robot is good for use in small subgroups. If there are some Tale-bots in the class, then it is possible to organize competitive activities with children.

What is the favorite function for the students?
The recording function, dancing, drawing.