How many kids are in a group？

4

How was the Matatalab robot(s) used?

The Matatalab robot is used during lesson time, as part of a lesson curriculum on AROUND THE WORLD. Teachers guide children in the lesson, first explaining and teaching children the different type of landscapes and geographical phenomenon of the unique places in the world such as Valley, Beach, River, Mountain. After children gain an understanding of the various geography, teacher then introduce robot and incorporate a story. Teachers then ask the children to go to different landscapes according to the character (Sally) - and how they plan to get to the different places in the world. For example, it starts with Sally taking a walk to the beach from home, and then she saw an island, she then has to "swim" to the island. Children will need to tell the teacher how to get to the island as there are obstacles such as "sharks" and "big boats" in the way. Children will brainstorm in their little groups (with the teacher's facilitation and questions asked) how to go around the obstacles to get to their destination. They will collectively give instructions (or take turns to give next steps) such as "Need to turn right" "Need to turn left" "Need to go 2 steps forward" Teachers will not give them the answer and allow them to explore according to their instructions, and finally, ask them "Is this where Sally supposed to go?" Children will then discuss and evaluate their next steps to resolve the problem (Sally is lost!) What skills did it develop? Teamwork, Critical Thinking, Communication, Logical step What worked best and what was challenging? Storytelling and giving the context so children are more engaged. Having children overcome obstacles and identifying the shortest possible alternative. How did students respond? Children are very engaged and excited about the activity. They are all eager to chip in their views, and have to take turns patiently to share their opinions. Share your comments upon the class using Matatalab The classroom activity is now livened up with an alternative activity which can cultivate teamwork and promote virtues such as patience. Teachers have to be well equipped with classroom management and asking the right questions to trigger response in children. The teacher must also know how to modify the challenges to make it relevant, interesting yet sufficiently challenging for children to learn.  

What skills did it develop?

Teamwork, Critical Thinking, Communication, Logical step

What worked best and what was challenging?

Storytelling and giving the context so children are more engaged. Having children overcome obstacles and identifying the shortest possible alternative.

How did students respond?

Children are very engaged and excited about the activity. They are all eager to chip in their views, and have to take turns patiently to share their opinions.

Share your comments upon the class using Matatalab

The classroom activity is now livened up with an alternative activity which can cultivate teamwork and promote virtues such as patience. Teachers have to be well equipped with classroom management and asking the right questions to trigger response in children. The teacher must also know how to modify the challenges to make it relevant, interesting yet sufficiently challenging for children to learn.