Dear fellow educators and aspiring robotics teachers,
As we embark on a new school year, some of you might find yourselves stepping into the role of a robotics teacher for the first time. It’s completely normal to have a mix of excitement and nerves as you dive into this exciting journey. Fear not! Even after 20 years as a “seasoned” teacher, I was quite nervous starting out in robotics and engineering. Here are some pointers and remember, you are not alone; the key to success lies in embracing the adventure with an open mind and a heart full of passion.
“Fake it as you make it” - a motto to live by as you embark on this new endeavor. Remember that you don’t have to know everything from the start. Instead, embrace the learning process along with your students. After all, teaching robotics is not about having all the answers but rather exploring the wonders of STEM together.
A great way to ease into your role as a robotics teacher is to seek guidance from experienced mentors in your community and surrounding schools… Connect with fellow project based educators or those well-versed in the field. Their valuable insights and advice can be a goldmine of knowledge as you navigate the challenges and opportunities of teaching robotics.
One powerful resource at your disposal is VEX’s STEM library. This treasure trove of educational articles on all things VEX will help you and your students when you hit those bumps in the road.
Join the VEX PD+ Community group. Here, you’ll find like-minded educators, passionate about robotics education. Exchange ideas, share success stories, and get inspiration for your classroom. Collaborating with a community of educators is not just beneficial for your students; it’s an enriching experience for you as well.
To gain a deeper understanding of VEX Robotics and build your confidence, consider getting certified. VEX offers various certification programs designed to empower teachers like you with the skills and knowledge needed to lead your students to success. Becoming certified allows you to demonstrate your expertise and dedication to providing quality robotics education.
Finally, have fun! Robotics is not just about learning; it’s about creativity, problem-solving, and innovation. Embrace the joy of exploration and discovery with your students. Witness their eyes light up as they see their creations come to life. Share in their excitement and be amazed at their ingenuity.
Starting the school year as a robotics teacher is an incredible opportunity to ignite the sparks of curiosity and passion for STEM in your students. Embrace the adventure, keep learning alongside your students, and let your passion shine through. Together, let’s inspire the next generation of innovators, problem solvers, and engineers.
Happy robotics teaching!
Sincerely,
Lori
PS Feel free to reach out to me as one of your resources. I post a lot of things here that I have created for the classroom, so check them out and feel free to use them!
