Physical computing devices are hands-on devices that provide students with the opportunity to practice computer science concepts by programming devices using directional and control commands in the early grades and putting their block-based and text-based code into action in the upper grades. The use of physical computing devices allows students to use the skills developed through learning to code; problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration, along with their sharpened math and science skills in a hands-on environment. These devices are available for checkout in our media catalog.
Items are available for a 10-day checkout period. To reserve any of these resources, contact Media Services at reservations@centralriversaea.org, use the chat at the bottom of the page, or call 641-844-2410 or 800-735-1539.
Grades PreS-2
Grades 3-5
Grades 6-8
Grades 9-12
Circuit Playground Classic
This is the Classic version of Circuit Playground, which comes with an ATmega32u4. It’s designed to be used with Arduino IDE and code.org CS Discoveries only. It even comes with Firmata already programmed in, so you can use it immediately with code.org Discoveries without any preparation or updates. Age range: intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Cubelets – Brilliant Builders Pack
Cubelets use Tactile Coding to help builders of nearly any age explore robotics, coding, and more. Uniquely designed, they are little bundles of software inside little bundles of hardware. As you build a robot, you learn to build a program. It’s a fun and fascinating way to introduce big ideas through play. Age range: primary, intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Dash–Dash & Dot Robot
The Dash Robot is beloved by kids and teachers across the US and around the world. Dash is smart enough to respond to voices and sounds and Dash can dance and sing, which makes for a fun and interactive learning experience for kids. Dash will help kids learn, laugh, and grow. Designed for kids 6+. Age range: primary, intermediate & middle school
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Finch Robot
Finch is a robot that inspires and delights students learning computer science by providing them with a tangible representation of their code. The Finch responds to light, temperature, and obstacles, among many other capabilities. It also has support for a range of programming languages and environments, with coding options for students 5+. Age range: intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Hummingbird Duo
The Hummingbird Robotics Kit is an easy-to-use, creative robotics tool that allows students to design, build, and program a personally meaningful robot out of any materials, with any device, in multiple programming languages. Age range: intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Computing Systems
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Kai’s Clan Starter Pack
Teach coding, robotics, AR, VR, and the Internet of Things (IoT) in one easy-to-use web platform that works seamlessly on just about any device. Kai’s Clan’s newest feature allows students to create their own Robot avatars in Tinkercad or Minecraft. Used for storytelling, students create their own Minecraft hero and when they code their Kai robot to move around, the Robot 3D avatar also moves around the virtual world. Create 3D environments that align with the lessons you teach and then view your lesson in AR or VR! Age range: intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Kano
Kano invented the first make-your-own computer for all ages, the Kano Computer Kit, in 2014. A kit for all ages to build and code a computer themselves using the illustrated ideas and simple steps. Make games, learn code and create the future. (Powered by Raspberry Pi) If a child can read, they can build and program a computer. It also includes an Open Source operating system, Pong, and Minecraft. The kit also includes a Standalone screen. Age range: intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Computing Systems
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 Core Set
This award-winning solution is based on the latest science standards and was created to enhance students’ curiosity and science skills. The LEGO Education core set is delivered in a storage bin along with sorting trays, labels, a Smarthub, a Medium Motor, Motion Sensor, a Tilt Sensor, and enough building elements for two students. Supported software provides an easy-to-use programming environment and includes the WeDo 2.0 Curriculum Pack, which covers life, physical, earth, and space sciences, as well as engineering. Age range: primary, intermediate & middle school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
LittleBits Kits
Turn your ideas into reality with LittleBits! Explore your creativity using LittleBits and make inventions that wow others. We offer a complete collection of LittleBits kits, including sets for the home, classroom and standalone Bits. With littleBits, you’ll develop important STEM skills while having fun. Snap together the easy-to-use building blocks and start inventing. There’s never been an easy and accessible way to learn electronics and engineering — until now. Explore our collection of LittleBits! Age range: intermediate, middle school & high school
Concepts
- Computing Systems
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Micro:bit Educator Lab Pack
The micro:bit is a pocket-sized computer that lets you get creative with digital technology. Between the micro:bit and our shield-like bit boards you can do almost anything while coding, customizing and controlling your micro:bit from almost anywhere! At half the size of a credit card, this versatile board has vast potential! Age range: primary, intermediate middle school & high school
Concepts
- Computing Systems
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Osmo Explorer Starter Kit
We know kids learn by doing, so each game from the Osmo Explorer Starter Kit uses physical action. Our most complete STEAM learning kit yet, Explorer Starter Kit features all of the interactive kid’s games from Genius Starter Kit, Monster and Coding Family. Includes game pieces, art supplies, and stackable storage — Just add your tablet! Age range: primary & intermediate.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Ozobot Bit & Ozobot Evo
Teach yourself to code two ways: online with OzoBlockly and screen-free with Color Codes. OzoBlockly, powered by Google’s Blockly, has five skill levels for beginners to master coding. Color Codes, made with markers on paper, teach basic STEAM skills, critical thinking, and debugging. Age range: primary, intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi is a low-cost, credit-card-sized computer that plugs into a computer monitor or TV and uses a standard keyboard and mouse. It is a capable little device that enables people of all ages to explore computing and learn how to program in languages like Scratch and Python. Age range: primary, intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Computing Systems
- Algorithms
- Programming
- Networks & the Internet
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
SAM Labs Maker Kit
Hands-on physical computing with wireless Bluetooth blocks for simple integration into the classroom
SAM Space and SAM Blockly are compatible with Google Chrome, Windows, iOS (SAM Space only), and Mac to suit your classroom’s inventory. The SAM Space and SAM Blockly platforms provide visual, flow-based coding and immersive block-based coding, covering all student skill sets. Age range: primary, intermediate & middle school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Sphero Bolt
BOLT is Sphero’s most advanced coding robotic ball to date, providing even more ways to express inventive ideas and experience the power of programming. Sphero BOLT is ideal for educators to send home with students. Packed with plenty of programmable sensors and a colorful LED light matrix, Sphero BOLT is paving the way for the next generation of coders. Age range: primary, intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Sphero Mini
Beginner learners can drive and play STEM-inspired games with the Sphero Play App, and more experienced learners can advance to programming the Mini with Block-Based Coding or Javascript in the Sphero Edu App. Equipped with a gyroscope, accelerometer, and colorful LED lights, this educational robot is more than a mini robot toy. Sphero Mini is the perfect entry into robotics for beginners! Age range: primary, intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Sphero RVR
Sphero RVR is made for makers, hackers, coders – and you. Sphero’s revolutionary take on what it means to be programmable, this all-terrain robot is built for customization. Code with it, build on it, and hack the robot of your dreams. With RVR, you can go anywhere and do anything. Drive anywhere with RVR’s powerful motor, all-terrain treads, and high torque. Age range: primary, intermediate, middle school & high school.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Squishy Circuit Hardware Kit
The Squishy Circuit Hardware Kit allows you to explore electronics and create circuits using a fun and familiar form of dough. Just mix according to the included recipe card, add some batteries, and soon you’ll be lighting LEDs, making noise, and running motors by simply plugging them into the conductive dough. Age range: primary, intermediate & middle school.
Concepts
- Computing Systems
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing
Think & Learn Code-a-Pillar
The Code-a-Pillar inspires little learners to be big thinkers by encouraging preschoolers to arrange (and rearrange) the easy-to-connect segments in endless combinations, sending Code-a-pillar on his path. This learning toy encourages experimentation while developing important skills like problem-solving, planning & sequencing, and critical thinking. They’re engaged in a hands-on, open-ended discovery that helps them become lifelong learners. Age range: preschool & primary.
Concepts
- Algorithms
- Programming
Practices
- Fostering an Inclusive Computing Culture
- Collaborating Around Computing
- Recognizing & Defining Computational Problems
- Developing & Using Abstractions
- Creating Computational Artifacts
- Testing & Refining Computational Artifacts
- Communicating About Computing