Programs

Building and programming LEGO robots is a fantastic way to learn problem-solving and engineering skills. Integrating robotics projects with specific science and math units motivates the students to learn these concepts at the same time. Our robotics activities stress the scientific method by testing hypothesis through experimentation, iterating designs, collaborating in groups, and documenting results. The visual programming interface is very flexible, allowing students of a wide range of ages to participate. We use activity materials developed internally as well as curriculum from Tufts University, Carnegie Mellon University and others.

The visual programming environment of Alice, developed by Carnegie Mellon University, makes it easy to create 3D animations. Students develop computer programming knowledge while sharing stories, building problem solving skills, and working in groups. Alice can be used with a range of subject areas, from a creative tool for English class book reports to telling a historic story for social studies.

Scratch, created by MIT, is a programming language that makes it easy for students of all grade levels to design interactive stories, animations, and games, while learning important math and logic concepts. Students learn to express themselves creatively, work collaboratively, and solve problems. Scratch mixes a wide range of multimedia, including graphics, videos, pictures, and music, to create engaging and interactive stories or presentations.

TAF is a Seattle-area non-profit that "prepares underserved children of color for higher education and professional success by providing a rigorous and relevant K-12 curriculum." We partner with TAF's TechStart initiative, a yearlong after-school program for elementary and middle school students of color that focuses on STEM skills. We prepare robotics curriculum and Activity Guides for the TechStart classes, and provide training and ongoing support for their teachers.

Technically Learning is part of the Student Teacher Outreach Mentorship Program (STOMP), which matches STEM experts with K-12 classrooms. We work with the STOMP Network and local public school teachers to develop and implement interactive STEM lessons. This program, centered at Tufts University CEEO, has created a model of partnership that is in action at universities and corporations across the United States.

Technically Learning has been working with several Seattle-area public schools since its inception. Our activities are designed to seamlessly integrate into Washington State's math and science curricula, so that teachers can use hands-on technology-based activities while educating the students on all essential material. We strive to make our activities central to the educational experience, rather than add-ons for which there is little extra time. Technically Learning provides ongoing training and technical support for teachers and parent volunteers throughout the school year.