Advancing STEM Education at East Canton: A Success Story with LocoRobo

When Luke Buxton began his journey with the LocoRobo curriculum as a sophomore, he had no idea how much it would shape his future. From his initial exposure to drone programming to progressing through an advanced robotics curriculum like LocoWear, LocoIoT,TryDrones,LocoDroneX, and LocoArm, Luke's development reflects the profound impact of a well-designed STEM education curriculum. Now, Luke is on his way to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, a testament to the solid foundation he gained through his high school drone curriculum.

Challenges in STEM Education

East Canton High School sought a STEM education curriculum that was engaging, practical, and inclusive for students of all abilities. The school needed a program that was easy to implement, even for teachers with limited experience in drones or robotics. Additionally, it had to cater to both beginners and advanced students like Luke, who thrive on challenges and innovation. "LocoRobo is a top-notch partner in our goal of developing resilient, innovative problem solvers," said David Samblanet, STEM Coordinator of Osnaburg Local Schools. "Their curriculum is structured yet creative, offering students the opportunity to explore while still providing the necessary guidance." LocoRobo provided a comprehensive solution that met these needs and was not only complete with resources, content, assessments, and support but also capable of growing with student needs and interests. Luke, a self-motivated and innovative student, exemplified the kind of learner who needed a curriculum that provided ample opportunities for discovery, creation, and application.

LocoRobo: The Solution to STEM Education Challenges

LocoRobo provided East Canton with a hands-on learning experience that was both accessible and challenging. The drone education curriculum, in particular, stood out for its ability to engage students with varying levels of experience. LocoRobo’s program included drone kits and classroom robotics equipment that made STEM education practical and exciting. "The onboarding process with LocoRobo was seamless, and their support has been outstanding," Samblanet noted. "LocoRobo has an amazing support team. They truly care about student learning and building relationships."

The scaffolded curriculum enabled students to begin with basic concepts and progressively tackle more complex tasks, ensuring sustained engagement. LocoRobo’s support extended beyond initial training, with their team remaining available to address any curriculum or equipment issues. This ongoing assistance, coupled with a vibrant community of educators exchanging ideas and best practices, greatly enhanced the overall learning experience.

The STEM education curriculum provided by LocoRobo was comprehensive and turn-key. All necessary equipment was included, eliminating the need for additional resources. The learning management system was particularly beneficial, as it enabled auto-grading of content checks, saving teachers time and allowing them to focus on more meaningful interactions with students.

Integration and Success at East Canton

LocoRobo's curriculum was seamlessly integrated into East Canton’s STEM education programs, starting in middle school with LocoCAD and LocoXtreme, and continuing through high school with courses in drone flight and robotics. By the third and fourth years, students chose specialized pathways, such as LocoDroneX for those interested in drones and LocoArm for those focused on robotics.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of implementing LocoRobo has been watching students like Luke excel and grow," said Samblanet. "The curriculum not only prepares them for academic success but also instills the confidence to pursue their passions beyond high school." The school's computer programming course utilized LocoIoT, providing students with hands-on experience in circuit building and programming. The course final required students to apply their skills to develop a product that addressed a real-world problem, showcasing the practical applications of the STEM curriculum.

Luke Buxton’s progress through the LocoRobo curriculum is a testament to the benefits of a well-rounded STEM education. His experience with drone kits, programming a drone, and classroom robotics allowed him to develop advanced skills in coding, electronics, and robotics. Luke thrived in an environment that encouraged innovation, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Teachers noted significant improvements in student engagement and academic achievement. The school’s partnership with LocoRobo was instrumental in becoming an Ohio STEM Designated High School, a testament to the curriculum’s depth and effectiveness.

Outcomes

The LocoRobo curriculum has had a profound positive impact on both the students and the school as a whole. Students have become more confident in their abilities to tackle complex problems, and the school has gained recognition for its commitment to providing a high-quality STEM education. Luke’s journey, along with those of his peers, highlights how the right STEM education curriculum can develop the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

Conclusion

East Canton High School’s partnership with LocoRobo exemplifies the potential of STEM education programs to transform student learning. With a focus on hands-on learning and real-world applications, LocoRobo’s curriculum has empowered students like Luke to achieve their full potential. For educators and administrators seeking a reliable and effective STEM curriculum, LocoRobo offers a proven solution that meets the diverse needs of today’s students.