On March 11, eight Jarvis Middle School fifth graders had a chance to learn basic programming and then test what they learned by directing robots to perform desired tasks. Jarvis students and teacher Emily Bell joined students from other Herkimer BOCES' school districts at the Herkimer BOCES Lego Robotics Honors Program.
Laurie Yager from the Mohawk Regional Information Center (MORIC) developed and led the workshop. The goal was for students to collaborate solving real-world problems. It was a hands-on exploration of engineering design and computer programming using a favorite tool/toy – Lego robots.
The Herkimer BOCES Honors Program is open to students in Herkimer BOCES component school districts and is designed to support the potential of students in grades 3-12 who have above average interests and abilities in a particular area. Programs allow
for interaction with like-minded peers. Students learn by engaging in educational activities with presenters who are noted in their field. Exploration and programs provide for different learning styles and include topics in the arts and sciences as well
as literature and history. Ongoing evaluation of all programs by teachers and students assures their relevance and quality.