For more than 20 years, the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy (CMRA) has studied how educators can use robots to teach Computer Science, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (CS-STEM). Our mission is to use the educational affordances of robotics to create CS-STEM opportunities for all learners. We fulfill our mission by developing research-based solutions that are classroom-tested and foreground CS-STEM concepts.
As a world leader in robotics education, the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy has trained thousands of teachers and coaches internationally. Our professional development courses equip educators with both the content and pedagogical knowledge needed to successfully implement robotics programs. Our courses are offered online and onsite, and support educators through hands-on training for robotics platforms like LEGO SPIKE Prime, LEGO EV3, Arduino, VEX V5, VEX EXP, and VEX IQ. Onsite training is conducted at the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) in Pittsburgh, PA. The NREC is part of the Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Institute, a world-renowned robotics organization. All professional development courses allow educators to earn a certification that is widely accepted as continuing education credits.
CMRA offers programs that include teaching coding and computational thinking using popular robotics platforms, micro-credential courses that center around the important knowledge and skills needed for Robotics Technicians, and International partnerships with educational organizations. All programs and curriculum are delivered through our CS-STEM Network Learning Management System where educators can create groups, add our materials, and track progress with their students. All of our curricula follow an easy-to-follow structure, accessible to those without any experience to start at introductory topics, then grow into more advanced concepts. CMRA curricula are also based on research to ensure the content aligns to standards and skills that current industries value today. Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy Virtual Robot Curriculum features a programming interface and virtual robot embedded directly within the curriculum. Teachers and students can follow along with the included videos, animations, challenges, and step-by-step lessons using a fully virtual solution.
CMRA certifications and microcertifications cover a wide variety of topics and each represents ones grasp on key areas identified through our research. Certifications and microcertifications are not comprised of a knowledge exam alone. As learners progress through the curriculum, they earn badges and upload computational artifacts (evidence such as coding solutions, pseudocode, photos of robot builds, wiring diagrams, etc.) that reflect their understanding.
Coding and Computational Thinking with a Virtual VICE Robot
No robot? We have got you covered! Students can follow along with the virtual VICE robot built directly into the curriculum.
Coding and Computational Thinking with LEGO SPIKE Prime (3.0)
Teach coding to students with LEGO SPIKE Prime. Our project-based curriculum teaches behavior-based programming through real-world contexts.
Coding and Computational Thinking with VEX IQ
Empower students with coding skills using VEX IQ. Our project-based curriculum features real-world contexts to teach behavior-based coding.
Coding and Computational Thinking with VEX V5
Teach coding using the VEX V5. Our project-based curriculum leverages real-world contexts to teach programming with the VEX robotics system.
Coding and Computational Thinking with Virtual SPIKE Prime
No robot? We have got you covered! Students can follow along with the virtual SPIKE Prime robot built directly into the curriculum.
Software Foundations with Arduino Shieldbot
An introduction to programming aligned to the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities of a Robotics Technician. Endorsed by the ARM Institute.
