Cozmo Latest Trick: Teaching Kids to Code
Anki, known for its popular robot Cozmo, has introduced a free “Code Lab” app to teach kids the basics of programming. This new app offers a simple and accessible way for children to learn coding skills using their beloved Cozmo robot.
The app utilizes Scratch Blocks, an educational coding system developed by MIT and Google, making it easy for kids to understand and learn basic programming. Similar to Apple’s Swift programming for iOS, Scratch Blocks are designed to build skills that are applicable to a variety of programming languages.
Cozmo’s Code Lab is a simplified version of the programming tools already used by developers and some educational institutions. Georgia Tech, a prominent robotics university, uses Cozmo in its introductory robotics course, highlighting the robot’s capabilities for teaching beginning programming.
The Code Lab app, a free update to the Cozmo app, uses a drag-and-drop interface, allowing kids to create programs by dragging code blocks onto a timeline. These blocks contain pre-determined actions, such as moving Cozmo forward and backward, lifting its arms and head, and triggering facial animations. The tasks start simple and become more complex as children progress.
Although Code Lab is a minor addition to the Cozmo robot, it provides an exciting and engaging way for children to learn about coding and computer science. Its user-friendly interface and fun tasks make learning to code enjoyable and accessible for young minds.
