Robotics: Smart Machines - Sidekick

Lower Age: 8
Upper Age: 108
Website: https://store.thamesandkosmos.com/products/robotics-smart-machines-sidekick
Price: $69.95
Year Added: 2022
Robotics: Smart Machines - Sidekick
This build-it-yourself robotics toy by Thames and Kosmos not only walks you through building two different designs of robots but also introduces the basics of coding in an accessible manner.

The building stage of the toy allows users to put together everything from the wheels and axles of the drivetrain to the wiring of the LEDs and battery. While the robot can be controlled independently, using the “Thames and Kosmos Sidekick” app allows for much more control and is a great basic introduction to coding. The app is a fantastic way to learn how to code since users can immediately see how each command interacts with the robot. 

The toy ultimately leads to experiences with different scientific concepts like electricity and engineering tools. - D. C. Coble, Purdue Reviewer

Framework Categories

Apply SEM Knowledge (SEM)
Engineering Thinking (EThink)
Engineering Tools and Processes (ETool)

Moore, T.J., Glancy, A.W., Tank, K.M., Kersten, J.A., Smith, K.A., & Stohlmann, M.S. (2014). A framework for quality K-12 engineering education: Research and development. Journal of Precollege Engineering Education Research, 4(1), 1-13.