Sphero’s New SPRK+ Robot Proves Learning Is Evolving

Man, I wish I had one of these at school. Sphero’s new SPRK+ robot is more than just a ball. It is especially designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and invention through connected play and coding.

Powered by the Lightning Lab app, you can learn programming, complete hands-on activities, and share your creations with the global community.

SPRK+, in conjunction with the Lightning Lab app, is designed to teach foundational programming through science, tech, engineering, arts and maths activities. Both the robot and app experience promote 21st century skills through the wonders of robotics across all subject areas.

A year ago, Sphero entered the education realm with the release of Sphero SPRK Edition. Today, Sphero’s SPRK products can be found in more than 1,000 schools reaching more than 300,000 students.

Equipped with Bluetooth SMART, the new tap-to-connect feature increases the ease of use specifically for teachers in the classroom. There’s also an additional coating on the outside of the ball that makes for a more scratch-resistant exterior, while keeping the integrity of the see-through shell.

Additional SPRK+ features include inductive charging, an accelerometer and gyroscope, shock resistance, programmable sensors, a polycarbonate shell, LED lights and it is totally waterproof.

David Millage, General Manager of Education at Sphero says with the SPRK+ students learn valuable skills for the future under the disguise of play.

“Learning is evolving and we are seeing a transition from consumption to creation in the classroom,” Millage syas. “Our robots are being used to teach everything from art to physics in a fun and hands-on way that engage students on a new level.”

A new and improved version of the SPRK Lightning Lab app has a bunch of new hands-on learning activities — over 150 — and an improved programming canvas to make coding SPRK+ robots easier and more rewarding.

Programmable sensors and sounds aim to bring a fun new dimension to coding, and a news feed feature will highlight trending content, comments and contributions. These improvements make Lightning Lab a more streamlined experience between mobile and desktop, as well as becoming an even easier social learning platform for anyone to enjoy

You can pick up a SPRK+ for $199. The Lightning Lab app is free and is available for download for iOS devices, Android phones and tablets, and Amazon Fire devices.


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