Sphero STEM Education Blog
Understanding Career and Technology Certification
As educators, it is important to set students up for success, whether they are continuing to college, pursuing a trade, or going straight into the workforce. Career and Technical Education (CTE) is a great way to equip students for career readiness by giving them skills and knowledge related to specific careers.
What’s the Difference Between Software and Firmware Engineering?
Students with a knack for computing, engineering, and other STEAM subjects should be aware of the jobs that might suit them in the future. Two potential paths for talented young coders are software engineering and firmware engineering. But what exactly is the difference between these two fields?
A Guide to Mechanical vs. Software Engineering
There are countless branches of engineering, and you can learn to engineer just about anything. This article focuses on mechanical vs. software engineering, two hugely important types of engineering that both present exciting career opportunities for STEM-savvy learners.
5 Must-See Engineering Feats Around the World
In some STEM subjects, it can be hard to convey the “big picture” to kids. With engineering, teachers get an easier ride. Sure, there’s plenty of theory behind the subject, but the awe-inspiring end results are plain to see.
STEM Spotlight: STARBASE Minnesota’s Journey to Mars
At STARBASE Minnesota Inc. in St. Paul, instructors use Sphero robots to bring the challenges of Mars exploration to life for their students. Since 2016, STARBASE Minnesota has been leveraging the versatility of Sphero’s BOLT, indi, RVR+, and littleBits to connect STEM concepts to real-world engineering, inspiring over 78,600 youth in the Twin Cities since 1993.
Sphero’s Guide to Firmware Engineering
Some of the most important software in the world doesn’t take the form of a computer application. Instead, it’s a tiny piece of code embedded in a physical device — often taking up no more memory than a single smartphone photo. This type of software is known as firmware.
Winter Break STEM Activities for All Ages
Don't let the winter break become a learning-loss holiday! We've got fun and engaging STEM activities for winter break that will keep kids’ brains sharp and ready to tackle the new year. Whether you're a parent looking for at-home inspiration or an educator planning post-break lessons, we've got you covered.
Thanksgiving Robotics Activities for Kids During Fall Break
The extended Thanksgiving break in many US schools presents a unique challenge: keeping kids entertained while the adults prepare for the holiday feast. Luckily, Sphero coding robots and kits can help families have a more relaxing holiday by keeping kids busy while the turkey roasts in the oven.
STEM Spotlight: Marshmallow Minds’ Salmon Migration Design STEAM Program
Harini Senthilvasan, Founder and CEO of Marshmallow Minds, is leading the way in integrating innovative STEM education with real-world problem-solving. In September 2023, her organization piloted the Salmon Migration Design STEAM Program, a hands-on project aimed at teaching students about the impact of climate change on marine life—specifically, the challenges salmon face during migration.
Cultivating Teamwork: Robotics in Collaborative Learning Environments
Robotics is not creating a generation of isolated tinkerers, but rather a powerhouse of young collaborators. Imagine teams of students huddled around a robot, debating strategies, sharing ideas, and problem-solving together. That's the true face of robotics in education today.
12 Educational Gifts for Kids & Teens
Whether it’s for the holidays, a birthday, or as a reward for making good grades, educational gifts for kids and teens are wildly popular. But you may be asking yourself, how do I pick the right educational gift for the special kids in my life? This guide will help you out.
Understanding Technology Literacy
Technology has assumed an integral role in all aspects of our life including education, business, and communication. Even our daily social interactions are influenced. Given the fast-paced, technology-driven world we live in, it’s critical to make technology literacy a priority for young learners right from the initial stages of their formal education.