Black Boys Code Chicago - Building Smart, Responsive Robots

Workshop Overview

February Workshop emphasizes integrated logic and autonomy. Beginners combine the hub, motors, and sensors with if/else and forever loops to create robots that continuously respond to their surroundings, changing direction, speed, or behavior based on what their sensors “see.” This helps them understand how simple rules can create dynamic, lifelike robot actions.

Advanced learners go further by implementing distance sensors to design robots that detect, slow down for, or avoid obstacles, much like autonomous vehicles navigating roads or robots moving safely in warehouses. They explore how timing, sensor placement, and decision logic all affect performance.

Both tracks stress the role of smart systems in modern automation and highlight how robotics is reshaping transportation, manufacturing, and everyday life. Learners are encouraged to think critically about the benefits, challenges, and societal impact of increasingly autonomous technologies.

Beginners build robots that use multiple devices in one program, applying loops to monitor and respond to sensor input.

Materials Required

• Laptop or tablet with SPIKE app installed

• LEGO SPIKE Prime kit with hub, motors, and colour sensor

• Coloured tracks

Beginner Track Learning Outcomes

• Integrate Multiple Devices
  Learners will connect hub, motors, and sensors in one program.

• Apply Conditional Logic
  Students will program color-based decision-making.

• Use Loops Effectively
  Learners will monitor sensor input continuously.

• Control Motion Parameters
  Students will adjust speed and turning based on inputs.

• Relate to Automation
  Learners will compare robotics to smart machines.

Advanced learners use distance sensors to program vehicles that avoid obstacles and navigate independently.

Materials Required

• Laptop or tablet with SPIKE app installed

• LEGO SPIKE Prime kit with hub, motors, and distance sensor

• Obstacle course materials

Advanced Track Learning Outcomes

• Explain Distance Sensors
  Students will describe ultrasonic measurement principles.

• Code Obstacle Avoidance
  Learners will program robots to stop, reverse, or reroute.

• Apply Conditional Logic
  Students will use distance thresholds in if/then logic.

• Develop Pathfinding Routines
  Learners will build autonomous navigation programs.

• Relate to Self-Driving Tech
  Students will connect robotics to autonomous cars and drones.

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Also check out other Workshops in Chicago.