Episode 264: Shaping the Future with Code

·1 hr 1 min·5 clips

A high-tech industry veteran explains why he became a 'super volunteer' after seeing how little computer science his own children were learning.

The episode begins with host Fonz introducing the show and sponsors, then welcoming guest Hal Speed. Hal explains his background in the high-tech industry and how volunteering for computer science education led to roles with CSTA, Code.org, and the Micro:bit Educational Foundation. He now works with Robotical to promote Marty the Robot. Hal defines computational thinking by comparing it to learning music with an instrument. Fonz shares his classroom experiences with tools like Scratch and Makey Makey. Hal discusses the current educational landscape, noting a shift 'back to basics' that treats computer science as a luxury. He emphasizes the importance of early exposure, especially for underrepresented groups. The conversation turns to Marty the Robot, with Fonz recalling his positive hands-on experience. Hal details Robotical's mission to ignite STEM passion through fun, engaging tools. He walks through Marty's features: unplugged color-card coding for young children, a controller with sequencer mode, Marty Blocks Jr. and Marty Blocks for block-based programming, and Python for advanced students. The demo highlights multi-language support, text-to-speech with accents, and a sensor dashboard. Hal explains how Marty's humanoid design aids social-emotional learning, particularly for students on the autism spectrum. They explore machine learning capabilities where students can train models for image or audio recognition. Hal addresses practical aspects like removable batteries and classroom sets. The episode concludes with Hal's answers to three closing questions about education funding, encouraging creativity, and turning his hobby into a profession. Fonz encourages listeners to try Marty through a two-week evaluation program.

As heard by us

A practical look at screen-free robotics for younger classrooms.

My EdTech Life gives Marty the clearest stretch, framing the classroom robot as a quick win for younger students. It moves into practical detail fast: a built-in color sensor, color cards that link red to stop and celebrate and green to go forward, and an unplugged setup that…

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

If you want a low-barrier robotics intro, this one keeps it simple.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

Listen to the show on

Apple Podcasts Spotify

Play clips from this episode More from My EdTech Life