Robots-Blog | ‘Switch’ by VEX Robotics: Bridging the Gap Between Block Coding and Python

Helping Students Learn Python inside a Familiar Coding Environment and at Their Own Pace

GREENVILLE, Texas, Dec. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — VEX Robotics, a frontrunner in Okay-12 STEM schooling, declares the launch of “Switch,” a revolutionary technique for studying Computer Science. Switch is a research-based, patented function inside VEXcode, VEX Robotics’ coding platform for all its merchandise. To date, VEXcode has supplied college students each block-based and python coding languages. With the introduction of Switch inside VEXcode, college students can simplify their transition between these two languages by integrating Python instructions immediately inside their block-based code.

Research has constantly proven that block-based coding is greatest for novice learners to start programming. However, as college students progress they’re motivated by the authenticity and energy of text-based coding. Research additionally reveals that this transition, from blocks-based to text-based coding, shouldn’t be trivial, and is commonly the explanation college students don’t proceed to check Computer Science. Switch supplies educators with a brand new device that fosters a deeper understanding of programming ideas.

Students can now study Python syntax, enhancing, and writing at their very own tempo—all throughout the acquainted block-based surroundings. Switch presents a number of key options to facilitate this studying course of:

• Convert: Instantly convert a number of regular blocks right into a Switch block with a single click on, permitting you to see the underlying Python code.
• Edit: Within a Switch block, you may edit the Python code immediately, simply as you’ll with common textual content enhancing.
• Write: Add new clean Switch blocks to write down Python code from scratch, full with auto-complete solutions to help you.
• Drag and Drop: Rearrange and transfer Switch blocks similar to regular blocks, enabling you to edit this system’s construction by drag-and-drop actions.
• Syntax: Begin with changing a single block to a Switch block to see and study the Python syntax, and progress to extra advanced code whenever you’re prepared.
• Learn More: Advance to writing multi-line Python code with correct indentations to deepen your understanding, all inside a Switch block.
• Familiar: All of that is finished throughout the consolation of the block-based surroundings you’re already conversant in, making the transition to text-based programming smoother and extra intuitive.

Switch’s scaffolded method helps learners transitioning from block-based to text-based coding, constructing confidence and proficiency in a single, supportive surroundings. The growth of Switch demonstrates VEX Robotics’ dedication to offering colleges with applications that strengthen STEM schooling for college students of all ability ranges.

“Teaching Computer Science is important but also challenging,” mentioned Jason McKenna, Vice President of Global Education Strategy. “Educators are seeking ways to teach programming in an approachable manner that allows students to transition from block-based to text-based coding. Switch is an innovative solution in our ongoing efforts to make STEM and Computer Science Education accessible to all students.”

In addition to facilitating a seamless transition from blocks to text-based coding, Switch assists college students within the following key areas:

• Enhanced Differentiated Learning: Switch allows college students to progress at their very own tempo by solely changing particular components of their code to Python when they’re prepared. This adaptability helps differentiated studying, permitting educators to personalize instruction for college students who might excel or want extra assist.
• Syntax Guidance and Error Reduction: With built-in autocomplete performance and automatic indentation, Switch helps customers study Python syntax with fewer errors. This steering permits college students to concentrate on understanding programming ideas fairly than being hindered by syntax errors, thereby decreasing frustration and fostering confidence.
• Integrated Learning Pathway inside VEXcode: Switch is an integral function of VEXcode, permitting college students to begin with block-based coding, incorporate Python utilizing Switch, and ultimately transfer to full text-based coding—multi functional platform. This structured pathway helps college students’ development from novice to superior ranges in a cohesive surroundings, reinforcing continuity of their programming journey.

“Research conducted by our team offers empirical evidence for the effectiveness of Switch,” mentioned Dr. Jimmy Lin, Director of Computer Science Education. “The findings contributed to our understanding of how to design environments that support students of varying experience levels and confidence in transitioning from blocks-based modalities to Python”

VEXcode with Switch is free and appropriate with the next VEX Robotics platforms: IQ, EXP, V5, and CTE Workcell. Additionally, VEXcode with Switch is accessible with a subscription in VEXcode VR, a web based platform that allows customers to study programming by coding Virtual Robots (VR) in interactive, video game-like environments. VEXcode with Switch is accessible on Chromebooks, Windows, and Mac computer systems.

“Throughout December, in celebration of Computer Science Education Week, we’re inviting everyone to try Switch with VEXcode VR or with their VEX hardware,” mentioned Tim Friez, Vice President of Educational Technology. “Our new Hour of Code activities and resources enable students to explore Switch coding across both hardware and virtual platforms.”

Transitioning from blocks to textual content will be difficult, however with the patented Switch options, it doesn’t should be.

Discover how Switch and VEXcode can empower your college students to grasp Python at their very own tempo. Visit swap.vex.com to study extra.