This Week We Thank Mr Jesse Muir

In today’s educational landscape, it is crucial to introduce young minds to the world of coding and robotics to prepare them for a tech-driven future. One educator leading the charge in this endeavour is Mr Jesse Muir, a Year 5 Teacher, who has been pioneering the use of robots like Spheros in the classroom. Encouraged by our Head of the Prep, Ms Natasha Mitchell, who values innovation and out-of-the-box thinking, Mr Muir saw an opportunity to make learning more engaging and fun through the use of technology.

Coding and robotics aren’t just about immediate engagement; they also open doors to future opportunities. Mr Muir recognises the importance of catering to different learning styles. Many students are kinesthetic learners, benefiting from hands-on activities. The visual and tactile aspects of coding with robots help solidify their understanding of abstract mathematical concepts.

One remarkable project Mr Muir introduced involved teaching geometry and angles through a mini-golf course design. The students not only designed the course but also coded Spheros to navigate it, imitating different types of angles.

Another activity explored the Cartesian plane, where students plotted points to create shapes, transferred them onto large canvases, and then coded Spheros to paint these shapes. This hands-on approach allowed students to visualise and apply mathematical concepts in a creative and interactive way.

Moreover, exposure to coding and robotics can spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields, potentially influencing students’ future career aspirations.

The rapidly evolving technological landscape offers endless possibilities, and early exposure can ignite a passion for these subjects.

Incorporating robots like Spheros into the classroom, as Mr Muir has demonstrated, not only enhances students’ understanding of complex topics, but also paves the way for a future where they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of an increasingly tech-driven world. The excitement and engagement seen in these young learners are a testament to the positive impact of integrating coding and robotics into education. One student even exclaimed, “That was the best maths lesson ever!”.