Subject: STEM

Explorations in Robotics

Discover robotics with hands-on projects. Learn sensors, motors, programming, and ethics in this online robotics course.

Course Type: Middle School

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Credits: 0.5

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Course Description

Explorations in Robotics introduces students to the exciting world of machines that sense, think, and act. This online, self-paced course is designed for learners with no prior robotics experience who want to understand how robots work and why they matter. Students will explore the essential components of robots, including sensors, processors, motors, and power systems, while also gaining practical skills in programming and design.

Through nine engaging modules, students will examine how robots move, how they gather information through sensors, and how they make decisions through programmed instructions. The course emphasizes hands-on learning by guiding students to design, test, and refine simple robotic models. Alongside technical exploration, students also reflect on the role of robotics in society, considering ethical questions about safety, fairness, and the future of automation.

By the end of the course, students will have developed both conceptual knowledge and practical experience in robotics. This foundation supports further study in STEM fields such as engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence, while sparking curiosity about real-world applications of robotics in industry, healthcare, and everyday life. As an asynchronous online course, students can work at their own pace while building valuable 21st-century problem-solving and design skills.

Course Objectives

Describe what a robot is and how robots have changed over time using the sense–think–act model.

Choose the best robot parts—like sensors, motors, and batteries—for different jobs.

Explain why some robots have wheels, legs, or other ways to move, and how these choices affect what they can do.

Create and test simple programs that use sensors to help robots make decisions.

Use the engineering design process to build and improve robots, making sure they are helpful, safe, and fair

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
Introduction to Robotics

What is a robot? Sense–Think–Act & robot history

Robot Components & Systems

Robot parts: sensors, processors, motors, power

Robot Movement & Locomotion

How robots move: wheels, legs, and more

Robot Sensing

Using sensors to see, hear, and feel

Programming Robots

Writing robot programs with blocks

Engineering Design Process

Steps to design and build your robot

Algorithms & Sensor Programming

Programming robots to make smart choices

Robot Ethics & Society

Making robots safe, fair, and helpful

Future of Robotics & Reflection

What’s next in robotics & your personal growth

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Excel’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.