Starting this year, teachers can borrow the Brussels Robotics Box for free from any of the 20 Dutch-speaking libraries in Brussels. The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) developed this educational box for students in the fifth and sixth grades. The box contains microcomputers, sensors, and other components that allow children to actively work with robotics in the classroom. Through this initiative, VUB aims to introduce children to robotics and problem-solving in a playful way from an early age, with an eye on the future.
VUB sees children as the leaders of tomorrow, who will need to devise solutions to societal challenges. “As a research and educational institution, it is our responsibility, given the high demand for technological talent in the workforce, to promote STEM studies,” says Jan Danckaert, rector of VUB. “With the Brussels Robotics Boxes, we want to inspire children for science and technology in an accessible way, encouraging them to consider a STEM education—and perhaps a STEM career—in the future.”
Programming, exploring, and experimenting in the classroom
The Brussels Robotics Box contains materials for an entire class and can be borrowed for free through the Dutch-speaking libraries in Brussels. This makes the box easily accessible to primary schools throughout the city.
With this kit, children not only learn how robots work, but also develop essential skills such as programming, problem-solving, and teamwork.
“The box contains materials for 30 students, divided into different drawers,” explains Fran Geys, coordinator of VUB Children’s University. “Each group of students receives a drawer containing, among other things, a micro:bit, a vibration sensor, several motors, a magnetic switch, and other materials. Step by step, the groups learn how to use these components and complete assignments in the digital learning environment. The goal is not only to increase knowledge of technology but also to inspire students to come up with innovative and creative solutions to everyday challenges.”
This project is a collaboration between VUB Research, the BruBotics research group, Brightlab (RVO Society – imec), the Dutch-speaking libraries in Brussels, and Flanders Make. The Brussels Robotics Box was developed with the support of Innoviris. More information can be found via this link.
Contact
Fran Geys
Coordinator, VUB Children’s University
fran.geys@vub.be
Eline Livémont
Coordinator, VUB Outreach & Communication
eline.livemont@vub.be