Ware Junior/Senior High School has recently purchased 5 Finch Robots to aid in computer science education for students in Mrs. Gardner's afterschool Robotics club, and Exploring Computer Science class.
Designed by Carnegie Mellon, the Finch robot is comprised of several motors and sensors that can be programmed(via usb connection) by students. The Finch features include:
- Accelerometers
- Motors
- Buzzer
- Full-color beak LED
- Pen mount for drawing capability
- Light, temperature, and obstacle sensors
- Plugs into USB port - no batteries required
The finch can be programmed via computer in several different computer programming languages such as Java, C++, Visual Basic, Snap, and Scratch.
More information on the Finch can be found here: http://www.finchrobot.com/