June 5, 2014

Four junior and senior kindergarten classes from various Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario (CSCNO) schools participated in the « Much More than a Robot » (C’est beaucoup plus qu’un robot) pilot project during the 2013-2014 school year. In order to celebrate the success of students taking part in this 21^st-century learning skills and teaching project, these young robotics experts will gather at the CSCNO board office (201 Jogues Street, in Sudbury) for the Minirobots Party on Friday, June 6, from 9:30 to 11:15 a.m. Following oral presentations, students will build and program a robot. They will then have the opportunity to play with their robots. Members of the media are invited to this activity.

As part of this initiative, the four and five-year-old students had access to WeDo robotic kits. They built robots by following existing models then programmed their creations. The use of manipulative materials and technology gave students the opportunity to learn and develop 21^st-century skills such as communications and team work. This project also promoted the development of fine motor skills.

Through their study of robotics and by integrating emerging technology into the classroom, Junior and Senior Kindergarten students were also able to develop various learning skills related to their social and personal development. By accessing technology, they were able to learn and play, complete various solution-oriented operations, assemble figurines, follow directives, and become independent and responsible learners.

While this year’s “Much More than a Robot” project was offered to Junior and Senior Kindergarten students, the CSCNO is considering extending this program to grade 1 students in 2014-2015.

The Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario offers a French Catholic Educational Program that is widely recognized for its excellence. The CSCNO provides a quality academic program that runs from early childhood to adult education, with some 7,000 students in 27 elementary and 10 secondary schools.

Info:    

Paul de la Riva
Communications and Community Development Coordinator
Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario
(705) 673-5626, ext. 294
(705) 677-8195 – cell phone