Robotics school for Pinoy kids makes math and science fun

It’s never easy to teach children different subjects —especially the more complex ones, like math and science.

 

But one learning center in the Philippines offers a way for children to enjoy these topics, which may help them become innovators, problem solvers or simply great thinkers.

 

The Fun Inspirational Road to Science and Technology (FIRST) Robotics Learning Center along Annapolis Street in Greenhills inspires students to connect with math and science in a wide range of disciplines rather than just learning these subjects in isolation.

 

In an interview, FIRST Robotics Director Bailey Policarpio said he and fellow investor friends decided to put up a robotics school in the Philippines after seeing the success of robotics centers in Malaysia in teaching children.

 

In Malaysia, Policarpio’s children really enjoyed the experience in a similar learning center.

 

“Our children really enjoyed it so I thought why not bring it here?” said Policarpio.

 

The idea is to teach children the practical application of math, science and technology.

 

“Normally in school, they’re taught science, math and technology but here we are teaching the practical application so they will have a better understanding of what is taught in their schools and they can appreciate it better,” Policarpio said.

 

Established only in June, the Center teaches Robotics to children using the STEM or the science, technology, engineering and math educational approach.

 

It has three courses for children ages 5 to 13 (and even older), with educators who are equipped with science and mathematics academic backgrounds.

 

The first course, for children age five and up, is "Our World of Adventures and Inventions." It explores ways in which people and things move.

 

In this course, children discover how machines lift or spin, or how animals and human bodies bend or jump.

 

Children will learn about simple machines in the home and local community, and may even be inspired to design and build their own models.

 

The next course, "Our World of Science and Technology" is for children aged seven and up. Here, children learn about information and control technology and math.

 

Teachers help kids make their toy models come to life using “basic sensors, mechanical parts and drag-and-drop software commands with a computer.”

 

Another course, for children age nine and up, is the "Our World of Robotics" course, where students will learn and start designing more advanced robot models.

 

Here children learn a deeper understanding of different science concepts such as forces, motion and energy.

 

“Students will also start planning and designing their own program to control robot functions or behavior,” the Center said.

 

The courses are taught in four IDEA (invention, discover, explore and aspire) rooms, which with their colors and spacious areas make learning conducive and fun.

 

While children wait for their classes to start, they can spend time in the playroom, where they can create, invent and discover Robotics concepts on their own.

 

No parent is alike because no children are the same, Policarpio says. Some parents may find robotics inspiring for their kids, but others may not.

 

To help parents find out for themselves, the Center offers free trial classes via their website (www.FIRSTRobotics.ph) or through telephone number 6963333. — TJD, GMA News