LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Detailed Review
Education Tools
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Product Overview
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 is a comprehensive educational tool aimed at engaging and motivating elementary school students in science and engineering-related subjects.
Primary Function
The primary function of WeDo 2.0 is to provide a hands-on, interactive learning experience that encourages students to ask questions, find answers, and solve real-life problems. It combines physical LEGO models with simple programming, helping students develop essential skills in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Target Audience
WeDo 2.0 is specifically targeted at elementary school students, typically in the 3-5 grade range, although its mechanical structures and learning opportunities can also be beneficial for secondary school students.
Key Features
Project Phases
The learning process with WeDo 2.0 is structured into four distinct phases:
- Explore Phase: Students connect with a scientific question or engineering problem, establish a line of inquiry, and consider possible solutions.
- Create Phase: Students build and program their LEGO models using the provided instructions and programming help.
- Test Phase: Students are given tasks to modify their models, which can involve investigations, designing solutions, or using models in different ways.
- Share Phase: Students present and explain their solutions using their LEGO models and the findings documented with the integrated Documentation tool.
Project Types
WeDo 2.0 includes various project types:
- Getting Started Project: Introduces students to the basic functions of WeDo 2.0.
- Guided Projects: Linked to specific curriculum standards with step-by-step instructions.
- Open Projects: More open-ended, allowing students to explore and learn within specific curriculum standards.
Technology Integration
The system includes articulating and sensor-equipped LEGO bricks, an app to issue commands and receive inputs, and guided lesson plans. This setup teaches basic concepts of logic and computer programming through interactive commands and feedback.
Documentation and Assessment
Throughout the project phases, students document their findings, solutions, and processes. This documentation can be exported for assessment, display, or sharing with parents, making it a valuable tool for tracking student progress.
Additional Resources
WeDo 2.0 comes with comprehensive teaching materials, including full curriculum and teacher training resources, making it a complete package for educators to integrate into their classrooms.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of LEGO Education WeDo 2.0
The user interface of LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 is crafted to be intuitive, user-friendly, and engaging, particularly for elementary students and their teachers.Interface Design
The software features a colorful, graphical, and drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy for students to interact with the program. This visual approach helps in simplifying the coding process, allowing students to focus on the creative and scientific aspects of their projects.Ease of Use
The interface is designed to be easy to use, even for those who are new to coding and robotics. Once launched, the software presents several clear options, including access to all projects, digital building instructions, and programming guidance. The drag-and-drop coding blocks are straightforward, enabling students to program their models without needing advanced technical skills.User Experience
The overall user experience is highly engaging and collaborative. Students can explore, create, and share their scientific discoveries through various projects that align with science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) standards. The software supports a discovery-based approach, encouraging students to build, program, and modify their projects in a fun and interactive way.Key Features
Project Library
Students and educators can select tutorials and projects from a library, allowing them to work at their own pace.Documentation Tool
An integrated documentation tool helps students and teachers track their progress and reflect on their learning.Sound Recording
Users can record custom sounds to incorporate into their programs, adding an interactive element to their projects.Offline and Online Access
The programming environment is available offline, and projects are saved locally on the device or in Google Drive, ensuring flexibility in how and where students work.Teacher Resources
Teachers have access to comprehensive resources, including teacher guides, lesson plans, and toolkits. These resources are available in multiple languages and provide detailed step-by-step instructions on how to use WeDo 2.0 effectively in the classroom.Conclusion
In summary, the LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 user interface is designed to be intuitive, engaging, and easy to use, making it an excellent tool for introducing elementary students to coding, STEM principles, and collaborative learning. LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Key Features and Functionality
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 Core Set
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 Core Set is a comprehensive STEM solution that integrates hands-on learning with technology, making it an excellent tool for elementary education. Here are the main features and functionalities of this product:
Building Elements and Hardware
- The set includes 280 LEGO system building elements, which is nearly twice as many as the previous version, allowing for more diverse and complex projects.
- The WeDo 2.0 Smarthub is a central component, featuring Bluetooth low energy for wireless connection to control software or apps. It is powered by 2 AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack and has two I/O ports for connecting motors, sensors, or other components. The Smarthub also includes a built-in RGB light surface that can display up to 10 different colors controlled by the software.
Sensors and Motors
- The Motion Sensor detects objects within a range of 15 centimeters and can be used as a range detector to identify if an object is close or far away.
- The Tilt Sensor reports the direction it is tilted and includes a new “shake” mode, detecting changes in six different positions: Tilt This Way, Tilt That Way, Tilt Up, Tilt Down, No tilt, and Any tilt (shake).
- The Medium Motor can be programmed to rotate clockwise and counter-clockwise at different power levels, and it allows for the attachment of axles or other LEGO elements.
Software and Programming
- The WeDo 2.0 software is classroom-friendly, using a drag-and-drop interface that makes programming accessible to elementary students. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, Chromebook, and iPad devices.
- The software includes comprehensive lesson plans and projects that are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) standards. These projects are divided into three phases: Explore, Create, and Share, where students connect to scientific questions, build and program models, and present their solutions.
Curriculum and Projects
- The curriculum pack offers over 40 hours of instructional content, covering life, physical, earth, and space sciences, as well as engineering. It includes Getting Started Projects, Guided Projects, and Open Projects in both science and computational thinking.
- The projects are structured to facilitate collaboration, with each set supporting two students. This approach encourages computational thinking, engineering principles, and problem-solving skills in a fun and engaging manner.
Documentation and Assessment
- The software includes a built-in Documentation tool and an assessment rubric, making it easy for teachers to evaluate student progress and projects. This helps in tracking the learning journey and identifying areas for improvement.
Teacher Support
- The set comes with getting started instructions and extensive teacher support, including face-to-face training through the LEGO Education Academy. This ensures that teachers can quickly integrate the WeDo 2.0 into their classrooms and make the most out of the resources provided.
Conclusion
While the WeDo 2.0 does not explicitly integrate AI in its core functionality, it does provide a structured and engaging environment that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity—skills that are foundational for future AI-related learning. The interactive and collaborative nature of the WeDo 2.0 makes it an effective tool for preparing students for more advanced STEM and AI-related studies.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 is praised for its hands-on, interactive approach to STEM education. It combines traditional LEGO bricks with classroom-friendly software and standards-based projects, making it an engaging tool for elementary students. The system supports up to two students per set, encouraging collaboration and teamwork. The WeDo 2.0 Core Set includes a Smarthub, a medium motor, a motion sensor, and a tilt sensor. These components are connected via Bluetooth low energy, allowing for wireless communication with the control software. The Smarthub has two I/O ports, which, however, can be a limitation if more than one sensor and the motor need to be connected simultaneously. This can restrict the functionality of the model, although adding another Smarthub can resolve this issue.Accuracy
The sensors in WeDo 2.0 have some accuracy limitations. The tilt sensor, while improved with a new “shake” mode, requires significant tilting angles to detect changes, and minor tilting angles (like 5 or 10 degrees) may not be detected. The motion sensor can detect objects within 10 centimeters but may miss some obstacles, indicating a need for better precision in certain scenarios.Programming Capability
The programming aspect of WeDo 2.0 is designed for beginners, particularly primary students. While this makes it accessible and easy to use, it lacks advanced programming features such as conditional judgments, variable manipulation, or custom background images and music. This limited programming capability can restrict more complex projects and may not satisfy the needs of more experienced coders.Teacher Support and Curriculum
One of the strengths of WeDo 2.0 is the comprehensive support provided for teachers. The curriculum is aligned with national science standards, such as the Next Generation Science Standards in the U.S., and includes detailed lesson plans and assessment tools. Teachers receive training and resources to help them implement the curriculum effectively, which is a significant advantage in ensuring the product’s success in the classroom.Areas for Improvement
Sensor Precision
Improving the precision of the motion and tilt sensors would enhance the overall accuracy and reliability of the system.Smarthub Ports
Increasing the number of ports on the Smarthub would allow for more complex models without the need for additional Smarthubs.Advanced Programming
Adding more advanced programming features would make the system more appealing to older students or those with more coding experience.Hardware Compatibility
While the new hardware offers significant improvements, the lack of backward compatibility with the previous WeDo system might be a drawback for some users who have invested in the older version. In summary, LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 is a valuable tool for hands-on STEM learning, especially for elementary students. However, it has some limitations in terms of sensor accuracy, Smarthub port availability, and programming capabilities. Addressing these areas could further enhance its performance and user satisfaction. LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Pricing and Plans
Pricing
New/Sealed Sets
The current value for a new and sealed WeDo 2.0 Core Set is estimated to be around €325 (or approximately $322-$445 USD).
Used Sets
Used sets can be found in the price range of €136 to €185, with an average price of €154 if the set is in good overall condition.
Features and Content
Core Set
The WeDo 2.0 Core Set includes 280 LEGO pieces, a Smart Hub, a Medium Motor, a Motion Sensor, a Tilt Sensor, and enough building elements for two students. It also comes with a storage bin and sorting trays.
Curriculum Pack
The set includes the WeDo 2.0 Curriculum Pack, which covers life, physical, earth, and space sciences, as well as engineering.
Software
The set is accompanied by free educational software that allows children to design and program their creations using drag-and-drop programming tools like Scratch.
Free Options
Software App
The WeDo 2.0 app is free and available for download. It is designed to help children learn through hands-on building experiences and includes new user experiences, teaching, and training features.
Additional Components
While the Core Set is a standalone product, there are additional components available separately, such as the WeDo 2.0 Smarthub Rechargeable Battery, Medium Motor, Motion Sensor, and Tilt Sensor. These components can be purchased to extend the functionality of the Core Set.
Summary
In summary, the LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 Core Set is a single product offering with a clear pricing structure for new and used sets, and it includes comprehensive educational content and software. There are no multiple tiers or subscription plans available for this specific product.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Integration and Compatibility
Overview
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 system is designed to be highly integrative and compatible across various platforms and devices, making it a versatile tool for educational settings.
Hardware Compatibility
- The WeDo 2.0 system uses a Smarthub that communicates via low-energy Bluetooth technology, allowing it to connect wirelessly to tablets, laptops, or desktops. This eliminates the need for a wired connection, which was a feature of the previous WeDo version.
- However, there is no backwards compatibility between WeDo 2.0 and the original WeDo sensors and motors. The new sensors and motors are specific to the WeDo 2.0 system and do not work with the older hardware.
Software Compatibility
- The WeDo 2.0 software is available on multiple platforms, including Android tablets, iPad, and Windows tablets (above 8 inches). It is not compatible with Windows 7 unless using specific hardware like the Bluegiga BLED 112 Dongle, which has limitations.
- The software features a user-friendly, graphical interface that supports drag-and-drop programming, making it accessible for elementary students. It also includes tools for accessing projects, programming models, and digital building instructions.
Device Compatibility
- For Android devices, the app requires at least Android 4.4.2 KitKat, a 1.5GHz CPU, 1GB of RAM, 2GB of free disk space, Bluetooth 4.0 or newer, and a camera. The device must also have an 8-inch display or larger.
- On Chromebooks, the app needs to be installed locally and can be used both online and offline. Projects are saved locally on the device and synchronized with Google Drive when online.
Cross-Platform Syncing
- Projects created on one device can be accessed on another device, provided the student logs in with their credentials. This ensures continuity and flexibility in the learning environment.
Integration with Other Tools
- The WeDo 2.0 software is compatible with Scratch, a popular coding platform, which enhances its educational value by allowing students to use familiar coding tools.
- The system also supports recording custom sounds and integrating them into projects, adding a creative element to the learning experience.
Open Source and Customization
- WeDo 2.0 provides an open source SDK, enabling programmers to communicate with the Smarthub via Bluetooth 4.0. This allows for further customization and integration with other systems.
Conclusion
In summary, the LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 system is well-integrated across various devices and platforms, offering a seamless and flexible learning experience. However, it does not support backwards compatibility with older WeDo hardware, ensuring that users must adopt the new technology to fully utilize its features.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Online Technical Support
LEGO Education provides 24/7 online technical support through their LEGO Education Support Portal. Here, you can find help with hardware replacements, technical issues, and other support needs.
Local Language Support
For support in your local language, you can visit the LEGO.com service page or contact your local distributor via email or telephone.
Order Support
If you need help with your purchases, you can contact LEGO Education through phone, email, fax, or mail. For US residents, the sales and order phone number is 800-362-4308, and you can also email orders@LEGOeducation.us.
Missing Elements
If you are missing any elements from your set, LEGO Education offers replacement parts packs for commonly lost elements. For elements not included in these packs, you can visit the LEGO.com service page for replacement parts.
Additional Resources
Getting Started and Building Instructions
Detailed guides on getting started with WeDo 2.0 and building instructions are available on the LEGO Education support page. These resources help you set up and use your WeDo 2.0 kit effectively.
Lesson Plans and Curriculum
LEGO Education provides a wealth of lesson plans, assessments, and classroom management resources. You can access these through the LEGO Education website, which includes a 200-page document filled with ideas for various projects and activities.
Software Compatibility
The WeDo 2.0 is compatible with several coding platforms, including Scratch 2.0 and 3.0, Tickle, Tynker, and Open Roberta Lab. These platforms offer additional coding experiences and integration possibilities.
Community Resources
Websites like Robots Got Talents offer additional building instructions, lessons on Scratch programming, and explanations of the main electronic pieces in the WeDo 2.0 set. These resources can enhance your learning experience with creative and educational projects.
Troubleshooting
For specific issues, such as connecting the WeDo 2.0 Smarthub, you can find troubleshooting guides on the LEGO Education support page. These guides help resolve common technical issues quickly.
By leveraging these support options and resources, you can ensure that you get the most out of your LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 experience.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Pros and Cons
Advantages of LEGO Education WeDo 2.0
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 offers several significant advantages that make it a valuable tool in educational settings:
Engaging and Interactive
WeDo 2.0 brings science to life through hands-on tasks, real-world projects, and relevant technology, making primary school computing engaging and fun for students.
Easy-to-Use Software
The WeDo 2.0 Core software features a colorful, age-appropriate, and drag-and-drop interface that is graphical in nature, making it easy for elementary students to use.
Comprehensive Learning
The system combines LEGO bricks, classroom-friendly software, and standards-based projects to teach essential science practices, engineering, technology, and coding skills. This helps students explore, create, and share their scientific discoveries.
Collaborative Learning
WeDo 2.0 encourages collaborative challenges that deeply engage students with science, engineering, and technology, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Teacher Support
The system includes training, curriculum, and built-in assessment tools for teachers, helping them support students effectively.
Documentation and Assessment
The software includes a documentation tool that allows students to document their problem-solving process, providing an assessment opportunity for teachers.
Disadvantages of LEGO Education WeDo 2.0
While WeDo 2.0 is a valuable educational tool, it also has some limitations:
Limited Components
The smarthub can only connect to two components at a time (such as a motor, tilt sensor, or motion sensor), which can be limiting for more complex projects.
Battery Life
The smarthub drains standard batteries quickly, requiring frequent replacements.
Need for Additional Parts
Users may need to purchase additional parts, especially pins, to fully utilize the system.
Age and Skill Level
WeDo 2.0 is designed for younger students and may be too simple for older kids (11 years) or those who are advanced in coding and robotics. These students might outgrow the system quickly and benefit more from LEGO Mindstorms.
Project Limitations
The system’s simplicity can limit the complexity of projects, such as making vehicles that can drive and turn, unless multiple sets are combined.
These points highlight both the benefits and the limitations of using LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 in educational settings.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 with other education tools
When comparing the LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 with other education tools, particularly those that are AI-driven or focused on STEM education, here are some key points to consider:
Unique Features of WeDo 2.0
- Hands-On Learning: WeDo 2.0 is a physical kit that combines building bricks with electronics, making it an engaging and interactive tool for teaching programming, science, and engineering concepts to children aged 7 and up.
- Drag-and-Drop Coding: The system uses a drag-and-drop coding interface, which is user-friendly and accessible for young learners. This interface is integrated with a smart hub that connects via Bluetooth to control software and apps.
- Sensors and Motors: The kit includes motion and tilt sensors, as well as a medium motor, allowing students to create and program various projects. The tilt sensor can detect six different positions, including a “shake” mode.
- Curriculum Support: It comes with a comprehensive curriculum pack offering over 40 hours of instructional content, which is a significant advantage for structured learning environments.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Digital Tools
While WeDo 2.0 is a physical kit, there are several digital tools that serve similar educational purposes:
- Google Classroom: Although not specifically focused on robotics or STEM, Google Classroom is a free, easy-to-use platform for managing and delivering educational content. It lacks the hands-on, physical aspect of WeDo 2.0 but is excellent for general classroom management and digital learning.
- Kahoot Create: This tool allows teachers to create interactive quizzes and games, which can be used to supplement STEM education but does not offer the same level of hands-on, project-based learning as WeDo 2.0.
Other Robotics and STEM Kits
For those looking for similar hands-on STEM experiences:
- LEGO EV3 Classroom: This is another LEGO Education product that is more advanced than WeDo 2.0, targeting older students. It offers more complex robotics projects and programming capabilities but is generally more expensive and complex.
- WeDo 3.0: Although not widely available yet, the WeDo 3.0 is an upcoming version that will likely build upon the features of WeDo 2.0, possibly integrating with Scratch 3.0 and offering new components and functionalities.
AI-Driven Education Tools
While WeDo 2.0 itself is not AI-driven, here are some AI tools used in education that can complement or contrast with its hands-on approach:
- ClassPoint: An interactive presentation tool that uses AI for engagement but does not offer the physical, project-based learning of WeDo 2.0.
- Eduaide.ai: An AI workspace for lesson planning and resource creation, which can support teachers in preparing STEM lessons but does not provide the hands-on experience of WeDo 2.0.
Conclusion
In summary, WeDo 2.0 stands out for its unique blend of physical building and electronic components, coupled with user-friendly programming tools. While digital tools like Google Classroom and Kahoot Create offer valuable educational resources, they do not replace the hands-on learning experience provided by WeDo 2.0. For those seeking more advanced or future-proof options, the LEGO EV3 Classroom or the upcoming WeDo 3.0 might be worth considering.
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about LEGO Education WeDo 2.0
What is LEGO Education WeDo 2.0?
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 is a hands-on, elementary science solution that combines LEGO bricks, classroom-friendly software, and engaging, standards-based projects. It is designed to develop science practices in the classroom through a robot-based learning system, encouraging students to explore, create, and share their scientific discoveries.How many students can use one WeDo 2.0 Core set?
One WeDo 2.0 Core set is designed for two students to complete all the projects presented in the curriculum pack. This setup is intended to boost collaboration skills among students.What is the target age group for WeDo 2.0?
WeDo 2.0 is designed for elementary students aged 7 and above. The projects in the curriculum pack are specifically built for grades 2-4, although the content can also be adapted for 5th-grade students.What comes in the WeDo 2.0 Core set?
The WeDo 2.0 Core set includes a blue storage bin with a sorting tray and labels, 280 LEGO system building elements, a low-energy Bluetooth Smarthub, a medium motor, a motion sensor, and a tilt sensor.What kind of batteries are needed for the Smarthub?
The Smarthub can be powered using regular alkaline or rechargeable AA-sized batteries, or the LEGO Education Smarthub rechargeable battery, which is a Li-Ion Polymer battery sold separately.How does the WeDo 2.0 software work?
The WeDo 2.0 software has a colorful, drag-and-drop interface that allows teachers and students to access projects, program models, view digital building instructions, and use an integrated Documentation tool. The software is available on various platforms, including laptops, desktops, and tablets, with specific system requirements.Is the WeDo 2.0 software compatible with Chromebooks?
Yes, the WeDo 2.0 software can be used on Chromebooks. The app needs to be installed locally on each Chromebook, and it can be used both online and offline. Projects are saved locally on the device and synchronized with Google Drive when online.Can teachers and students edit or write new projects in the software?
No, it is not possible to edit or write new projects in the digital tool. However, teachers can adjust the existing projects to make them their own using the available tools.Does WeDo 2.0 align with any science standards?
Yes, the WeDo 2.0 curriculum aligns with national science standards, such as the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) in the U.S. and other relevant standards in each respective country.What kind of training is available for WeDo 2.0?
Each bundle comes with an e-learning course that provides a flexible online training program. Additionally, LEGO Education offers professional development and educator support worldwide, including training programs, workshops, and comprehensive online and offline support guides.Is there backwards compatibility between WeDo and WeDo 2.0?
No, there is no backwards compatibility between the old WeDo system and WeDo 2.0 due to the new hardware and software technology. The previous hardware does not connect with Bluetooth low energy and therefore does not work with the new software. LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 - Conclusion and Recommendation
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 Set
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 set is a highly effective and engaging educational tool that caters specifically to elementary and middle school students, focusing on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education.
Key Benefits
- STEM Skills Development: This set helps students develop basic engineering skills, explore scientific concepts, and learn block-based programming. It includes various LEGO bricks, motors, sensors, and programming software that bring projects to life.
- Interactive Learning: WeDo 2.0 makes learning fun and interactive, allowing students to build and program models such as robots and other mechanical devices. The set comes with guided lesson plans that teach scientific concepts, logic, and basic computer programming.
- Collaboration and Creativity: The set encourages collaboration and teamwork, as students can work in groups to design and program their projects. It also fosters creativity and problem-solving skills through various challenges and open-ended projects.
Target Audience
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 set is most beneficial for:
- Elementary School Students: The target age group is 6-9 years old, making it an ideal tool for early introduction to STEM subjects.
- Educators: Teachers can use this set in classroom environments to teach STEM subjects interactively. The set includes comprehensive curriculum and teacher training materials, making it easy for educators to integrate into their lesson plans.
Practical Considerations
- Classroom Use: The set is well-suited for classroom environments due to its structured lesson plans and ease of use. However, it requires more storage space compared to the previous version, which could be a consideration for some classrooms.
- Home Use: Parents can also purchase a basic kit for home use, providing a cost-effective way to support their child’s STEM education outside of school.
Recommendation
The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 set is highly recommended for both educational institutions and parents looking to provide their children with a solid foundation in STEM subjects. Its interactive and engaging approach makes learning fun and effective, while the comprehensive curriculum and teacher support materials ensure that educators can easily integrate it into their teaching practices.
Overall, the WeDo 2.0 set is an excellent choice for anyone seeking to introduce young students to the exciting and essential fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.