What is Edison?

Edison is an innovative educational robot designed to make coding accessible and enjoyable for students aged 4 to 16. It serves as a comprehensive STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teaching resource, empowering students to become not only proficient coders but also inventors, problem solvers, and creative thinkers. With its robust design and user-friendly programming languages, Edison aims to revolutionize the way coding is taught in classrooms around the world.

Features

Edison comes packed with a variety of features that make it a versatile educational tool:

1. Programmable Robot

Edison is designed to be a fully programmable robot that can be easily controlled using different programming languages. This flexibility allows students to progress at their own pace and explore various coding concepts.

2. Multiple Programming Languages

Edison supports three distinct programming languages, catering to different skill levels:

• Barcodes: A screen-free programming method where students scan unique barcodes to activate pre-set programs in the robot.
• EdBlocks: A graphical programming language that uses drag-and-drop blocks, making it ideal for beginners.
• EdScratch: A more advanced drag-and-drop programming platform that provides powerful functionality for computer science education.
• EdPy: A text-based programming language that teaches students the fundamentals of real-world programming, enabling them to delve deeper into robotics and coding.

3. Durable Design

Edison robots are built to withstand the rigors of classroom use. They are durable, rechargeable, and designed without loose parts, making them easy to manage and store.

4. Educational Resources

Edison provides a wealth of free teaching resources, including lesson plans, teacher guides, and student activity sheets. These resources are designed to encourage independent learning and are tailored to various grade levels.

5. Scalability

Edison is priced affordably for educational institutions, with options for bundle packs and bulk discounts. This scalability ensures that schools can equip each student with their own robot, enhancing the learning experience.

6. Hands-On Learning

Edison promotes hands-on learning through engaging activities that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. The robot's sensors and expandable build system allow for exploration across various subjects, including math, science, engineering, and design thinking.

7. Community Support

Edison has a dedicated community of educators who share insights, lesson ideas, and teaching strategies. This collaborative environment helps teachers maximize the potential of Edison in their classrooms.

Use Cases

Edison can be utilized in a variety of educational settings and contexts:

1. Coding Education

Edison is an excellent tool for teaching coding concepts to students of all ages. Its gradual progression from barcode programming to more advanced languages allows students to build their skills incrementally.

2. STEM Curriculum Integration

Edison can be integrated into STEM curricula, providing hands-on experiences that reinforce theoretical concepts. Students can engage in projects that combine coding with math and science principles, fostering a deeper understanding of these subjects.

3. Collaborative Learning

Edison encourages collaborative learning through pair programming and group projects. Students can work together to solve challenges, share ideas, and learn from one another, enhancing their teamwork skills.

4. Creative Problem Solving

Edison inspires creativity by allowing students to invent their own programs and projects. They can design unique challenges and explore solutions, fostering an environment of innovation and experimentation.

5. Classroom Management

With durable robots and no loose parts, Edison is easy to manage in a classroom setting. Teachers can focus on facilitating learning rather than worrying about equipment maintenance.

6. Professional Development for Educators

Edison provides resources and support for educators, helping them enhance their teaching practices. Teachers can access lesson plans, teaching strategies, and community insights to improve their coding instruction.

Pricing

Edison is competitively priced to ensure accessibility for educational institutions. The pricing structure includes:

• Individual Edison Robot: USD $59.00
• Class 30 Pack: USD $1,199.00

The pricing model is designed to accommodate schools and educators, with built-in discounts for bulk purchases. Additionally, there are no ongoing fees for using Edison’s programming software, making it a cost-effective solution for coding education.

Comparison with Other Tools

When comparing Edison to other educational robotics tools, several unique selling points stand out:

1. Affordability

Edison is priced lower than many competing educational robots, making it accessible for schools with limited budgets. The bulk purchasing options further enhance its affordability.

2. No Ongoing Fees

Unlike some other robotics platforms that require subscription fees for software access, Edison offers all its programming languages for free, allowing unlimited user access without additional costs.

3. Comprehensive Educational Resources

Edison provides a wealth of free teaching resources, including detailed lesson plans and activity sheets. This support is often more extensive than what is offered by competitors.

4. Scalability for Classrooms

Edison is designed specifically for classroom use, with durable construction and no loose parts. This makes it easier for teachers to manage multiple robots in a learning environment.

5. Progressive Learning Path

The gradual transition from barcode programming to advanced text-based languages allows students to develop their coding skills in a structured manner, which may not be the case with other tools that lack this progression.

6. Community Engagement

Edison fosters a strong community of educators who share insights and resources, providing ongoing support for teachers. This collaborative environment can be beneficial for those looking to enhance their teaching methods.

FAQ

1. What age group is Edison suitable for?

Edison is designed for students aged 4 to 16, making it a versatile tool for various educational levels.

2. What programming languages does Edison support?

Edison supports four programming languages: barcode programming, EdBlocks, EdScratch, and EdPy.

3. Is there a cost for using the programming software?

No, all three programming languages are free for unlimited users, with no ongoing fees.

4. Can Edison be used in a classroom setting?

Yes, Edison is specifically designed for classroom use, with durable and easy-to-manage features that make it suitable for educational environments.

5. Are there teaching resources available for educators?

Yes, Edison provides a wealth of free teaching resources, including lesson plans, teacher guides, and student activity sheets.

6. How can I purchase Edison?

Edison products can be purchased individually or in bulk through their website, with options for bundle packs and discounts for educational institutions.

7. What support is available for educators using Edison?

Edison offers community support, lesson ideas, and teaching strategies to help educators maximize the potential of the robot in their classrooms.

In summary, Edison stands out as a versatile educational robot that makes coding accessible and engaging for students. Its robust features, affordability, and extensive support resources make it an ideal choice for educators looking to enhance their STEM curriculum. With Edison, students can embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and problem-solving that prepares them for the challenges of the 21st century.