mBot Smart Car & Logic Camp

Course Overview

The mBot is small but mighty-and at this camp, it becomes the ultimate learning partner for curious minds. This program takes students on a deep dive into the world of mechanical engineering and computer science. By transforming a box of parts into a fully functional, autonomous smart car, students learn exactly "what makes a robot tick." From wiring hardware to writing complex logic, this camp bridges the gap between digital code and physical movement.

Course Content

Over five high-energy days, students progress from assembly to advanced automation:

Day 1: The Build - Hands-on assembly of the mBot hardware and structural chassis.

Day 2: Senses & Signals - Exploring electronic inputs, wiring sensors, and programming LED light displays.

Day 3: Logic & Intelligence - Introduction to coding logic, including "Loops" and "If-Then" conditional statements.

Day 4: The Labyrinth Challenge - Programming the mBot as a self-navigating maze solver.

Day 5: The Grand Showcase - Final polishing, performance testing, and project presentations.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the camp, students will be able to:

• Identify and assemble key robotic components (motors, sensors, and micro-controllers).
• Program a robot to interact with its environment using ultrasonic and line-following sensors.
• Apply computational thinking to solve engineering challenges, such as navigating a digital bicycle light or a labyrinth escape.
• Demonstrate increased confidence in problem-solving and "debugging" mechanical errors.

Teaching Method

We use a Layered Learning Approach. We guide students through every stage of development-starting with the tactile "snap-together" hardware, moving to wiring, and culminating in block-based coding. Every challenge is designed to stretch their thinking, moving from simple guided tasks to open-ended engineering problems that require creativity and persistence.

Assessment Methods

To ensure every student masters the core concepts, we utilize:

• Daily Milestone Checks: Trainers verify that each "layer" (build, sensor, or code) is functional before moving to the next stage.
• Interactive Quizzes: Fun, low-pressure quizzes to reinforce technical terminology and logic.
• Final Presentation: A live demonstration of their programmed mBot navigating a challenge course to earn their Certificate of Achievement.

Prerequisites

Age: 10 - 14 years old.

Experience: No prior experience in robotics or coding is needed! This is an entry-level camp designed to build skills from the ground up.

Required Materials

• A jacket
• Water bottle.