Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Tardigrade: WUaS and potentially Lego Robotics with programming * Brainstorming, as a possible beginning to the online Lego Robotics' club with programming (& re #WUaSHomeRobotics too), I asked the following 3 questions of Gemini AI in the PSs and got GREAT responses ... And regarding both San Francisco State University and MIT OCW-centric wiki World Univ & Sch, see the PPPS

 

A free open online #SFSUwithWUaS #RoboticsWithProgramming club & for
#WUaSHomeRobotics #WUaSLegoRobotics beginning this Autumn 2025 potentially with #LegoSpikePrimeRoboticsKits & #ScratchProgrammingLanguage
https://worlduniversityandschool.blogspot.com/2025/07/tardigrade-wuas-and-potentially-lego.html & https://scott-macleod.blogspot.com/2025/07/tardigrade-wuas-and-potentially-lego.html #PlayLearn
#WUaSplay ~

https://x.com/WorldUnivAndSch/status/1950620852749558085

https://x.com/WUaSPress/status/1950621996750123236

https://x.com/Q_YogaMacFlower/status/1950621374223159474

https://x.com/scottmacleod/status/1950623501829939272

https://x.com/HarbinBook/status/1950623697712402546

https://x.com/sgkmacleod/status/1950621683926388912

https://x.com/TheOpenBand/status/1950623866591850705


Retweeting -

How will prosp. matriculating students be able to PLAY INTO
@WorldUnivAndSch
 eg w #LegoRobotics re #WUaSHomeRobotics in lieu of applying & #PlayLearn throughout their #freeWUaSdegrees, not only Bachelor, AA, IB/sim BUT also for MD, LAW & PhD
#WUaSplay  https://quakerscotland.org/sites/quakerscotland.org/files/styles/720-wide/public/lego-mfw2.jpg ?

https://x.com/WorldUnivAndSch/status/1799970424195105212


So ... 
 
A free open online #SFSUwithWUaS #RoboticsWithProgramming club & for
#WUaSHomeRobotics #WUaSLegoRobotics (re both of #WUaSunivs' wings) beginning this Autumn 2025 potentially with #LegoSpikePrimeRoboticsKits & #ScratchProgrammingLanguage https://scott-macleod.blogspot.com/2025/07/tardigrade-wuas-and-potentially-lego.html & 



* * 

WUaS and potentially Lego Robotics with programming * Brainstorming, as a possible beginning to the online Lego Robotics' club with programming (& re #WUaSHomeRobotics too), I asked the following 3 questions of Gemini AI in the PSs and got GREAT responses ... And regarding both San Francisco State University and MIT OCW-centric wiki World Univ & Sch, see the PPPS 


Dear Aidan, 

Nice to talk with you just now. 

Brainstorming, as a possible beginning to the online Lego Robotics' club with programming (& re #WUaSHomeRobotics too), I asked the following 3 questions in the PSs and got GREAT responses ... And regarding both San Francisco State University and MIT OCW-centric wiki World Univ & Sch see the PPPS ... as a start.


It seems like a SF State Lego Robotics' club with learning programming in Scratch and Python by playing could be the way for you and other San Francisco State marine science, computer science and prospective robotics' students  to get SF State to buy something like 10 Lego Spike Prime Robotics' kits ... and I'm guessing you'd need a SF State faculty member involved too ... What do you think?

In the PPPPPS I asked Gemini conversational generative AI these questions in voice, and got a GREAT reply too ..

More later, Best regards,  

Scott






PS

searched on 
'lego spike prime robotics kit with scratch programming tutorials' 

The LEGO Education SPIKE Prime set utilizes a Scratch-based programming language called Word Blocks within its SPIKE App. This allows users to build and program robots using a visual, block-based interface, similar to Scratch. SPIKE Prime also supports Python programming for more advanced users. 
Key Features:
  • Scratch-based Programming:
    The SPIKE Prime set uses Word Blocks, a visual programming language based on Scratch, for coding the robot. 
  • SPIKE App:
    The SPIKE App, available for various platforms, provides the programming environment, building instructions, lessons, and help sections. 
  • Icon Blocks and Python:
    Beyond Word Blocks, the app also features Icon Blocks and allows for Python programming for more advanced users. 
  • Hub:
    The SPIKE Prime hub has a 6x6 display matrix and six ports for connecting sensors and motors. 
  • Lessons and Tutorials:
    LEGO Education offers various resources, including lessons, building instructions, and tutorials, to guide users in programming with SPIKE Prime. 
  • Workshops:
    There are also workshops available, such as those offered by Carnegie Mellon University's Robotics Academy, that focus on SPIKE Prime programming using Scratch, including movement, sensors, and program flow control. 
In essence, the LEGO SPIKE Prime set provides a user-friendly platform for learning robotics and coding using a Scratch-like visual programming language, with options for more advanced users to explore Python





PPS
Searched on 
how best to create a lego spike prime robotics kit club at San Francisco State and to learn scratch programming and then the Python language ... and to build robots?



To create a LEGO SPIKE Prime robotics club at San Francisco State, focus on a structured learning path that incorporates Scratch programming for beginners and then transitions to Python for more advanced projects. Start by securing club funding, finding a suitable meeting space, and recruiting members interested in robotics and coding. Introduce SPIKE Prime's hardware and software, then teach Scratch for foundational coding concepts. Finally, guide students to learn Python for more complex robot control and functionality, encouraging them to build and experiment with robots throughout the process. 
This video provides a basic introduction to the LEGO SPIKE Prime hardware and software, including connecting the hub and starting a new project:
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
1. Establishing the Club:
  • Formalize the club:
    Start by registering with the university's student organizations or clubs department.
  • Secure funding:
    Apply for funding from the university or seek sponsorships from local companies or organizations interested in STEM education. 
  • Find a space:
    Identify a suitable room on campus for regular meetings, ideally with access to tables and power outlets for building and coding. 
  • Recruit members:
    Promote the club through university channels like student emails, social media, and campus events to attract students passionate about robotics and coding. 
  • Build a leadership team:
    Enlist enthusiastic students to help with organization, teaching, and mentorship. 
2. Learning Path:
  • Introduction to SPIKE Prime:
    • Familiarize members with the LEGO SPIKE Prime set components, including the hub, motors, sensors, and building elements. 
    • Guide them on connecting the hub to computers (via Bluetooth or USB) and using the SPIKE Prime app. 
    • Introduce the SPIKE Prime coding environment, which uses a drag-and-drop interface based on Scratch. 
  • Scratch Programming:
    • Start with the basics of Scratch programming, using the SPIKE Prime app's drag-and-drop blocks to control the robot's movements, sensors, and other functionalities. 
    • Introduce concepts like loops, conditions, variables, and functions through interactive projects and challenges. 
    • Encourage members to create simple games, animations, and robotic tasks using Scratch. 
  • Python Programming:
    • Introduce the Python programming language, explaining its syntax, structure, and advantages for robotics. 
    • Show how to import the necessary SPIKE Prime libraries to control the robot's hardware from Python. 
    • Guide members to translate Scratch projects into Python code, deepening their understanding of the programming concepts. 
    • Introduce more advanced Python concepts like object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. 
  • Building and Experimentation:
    • Encourage members to build different robot designs, experiment with various sensor configurations, and develop unique robotic solutions. 
    • Organize regular building and programming challenges to foster creativity and teamwork. 
    • Provide opportunities for members to showcase their projects and compete in local or regional robotics competitions. 
This video demonstrates how to write a simple Python program for the LEGO SPIKE Prime to control a robot's movements:
3. Ongoing Support and Learning:
  • Mentorship:
    Pair experienced members with newer ones to provide guidance and support. 
  • Online resources:
    Share links to helpful websites, tutorials, and documentation on SPIKE Prime, Scratch, and Python. 
  • Guest speakers:
    Invite experts in robotics, programming, or related fields to share their knowledge and experiences. 
  • Community engagement:
    Encourage members to participate in online forums and communities to connect with other robotics enthusiasts. 
  • Regular evaluations:
    Conduct periodic assessments to gauge members' progress and identify areas for improvement





PPPS

how best to create an ONLINE lego spike prime robotics kit club at San Francisco State in collaboration with MIT OCW-centric wiki World University and School (https://wiki.worlduniversityandschool.org/wiki/Robotics) - and to grow a community of Lego roboticists - and to learn scratch programming and then the Python language ... and to have fun building and coding Lego robots?


To establish an online LEGO Spike Prime robotics club in collaboration with World University and School (WUaS), focus on creating a structured learning path from Scratch to Python, leveraging both the SPIKE App's block-based programming and Python's more advanced capabilities. Grow a community through online events, challenges, and collaborative projects, leveraging the resources of both San Francisco State and the WUaS wiki.
1. Structure and Curriculum:
2. Community Building:
  • Online Platform:
    Establish a dedicated online platform (e.g., Discord, Slack) for club members to interact, ask questions, share progress, and collaborate on projects. 
  • Regular Online Meetings:
    Conduct regular online meetings (e.g., weekly or bi-weekly) for instruction, Q&A sessions, and showcasing projects. 
  • Community Challenges:
    Organize regular online challenges (e.g., obstacle courses, Sumo wrestling) that encourage friendly competition and skill development. 
  • Collaborative Projects:
    Facilitate collaborative projects where students work together on larger, more complex robotics projects. 
  • Guest Speakers:
    Invite guest speakers (e.g., robotics experts, engineers) to share their experiences and insights with the club members. 
3. Collaboration with WUaS:
  • Leverage WUaS Resources:
    Utilize the WUaS wiki as a central hub for sharing learning resources, project ideas, and community updates.
  • Cross-Promote:
    Promote the club through both San Francisco State's and WUaS's online channels to reach a wider audience.
  • Joint Projects:
    Explore opportunities for joint projects that involve students from both institutions, fostering a wider learning experience. 
4. Fun and Engagement:
  • Gamification:
    Incorporate gamification elements (e.g., points, badges, leaderboards) to make learning more engaging.
  • Creative Freedom:
    Encourage students to experiment and express their creativity in their robot designs and programming.
  • Celebration of Achievements:
    Celebrate achievements and milestones of club members to foster a sense of accomplishment. 
By focusing on these key areas, the online LEGO Spike Prime robotics club can be a vibrant and engaging learning environment for students at San Francisco State, fostering a passion for robotics, programming, and collaborative learning


PPPPS

here again is a MIT OCW course on Lego Robotics - 



PPPPPS

How best to create an online Lego spike Prime robots kit Club at San Francisco State University in collaboration with MIT open courseware Centric Wiki World University and school and building out of this MIT ocw course on Lego robotics from 2007 experimental Robotics and to grow a community of online Lego robotics and for learning both the scratch programming language and the Python language and to have fun in building


This is an ambitious and exciting project! Combining the hands-on fun of Lego robotics with the academic rigor of MIT OCW, while fostering an online community for Scratch and Python, offers immense potential. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to best create this online Lego Spike Prime Robotics Club at San Francisco State University:

Phase 1: Foundation and Official Recognition (SFSU Focus)

  1. Understand SFSU Club Requirements:

    • Review Existing Organizations: First, check if a similar robotics club already exists at SFSU. If so, consider collaborating or defining a unique niche for your club (e.g., specific focus on Lego Spike Prime, online format, MIT OCW integration).

    • Contact Student Activities & Events (SAE) Office: This is crucial. Email activities@sfsu.edu to express your intent to form a new organization. They will guide you through the formal recognition process, which usually involves a New Organization Recognition Summit (typically late Fall and Spring semesters).

    • Gather Core Members: You'll need a minimum of five members, including two officers (President and Financial Officer). These initial members will be your core team for planning and launching.

    • Find a Faculty/Staff Advisor: This is a mandatory requirement. Seek out a faculty member or staff member at SFSU who has an interest in robotics, STEM education, or community building. Their support will be invaluable.

    • Draft a Club Constitution: This document outlines the club's purpose, membership, officer roles, meeting structure, and adherence to university policies. Clearly state the club's mission, including its online nature, use of Lego Spike Prime, and collaboration with MIT OCW/Wiki World University.

    • Officer Requirements: Ensure your officers meet the GPA (2.0 cumulative SF State GPA) and unit enrollment requirements (6 units for undergraduates, 3 for graduates).

  2. Define Club Purpose and Niche:

    • Central Theme: "An online Lego Spike Prime Robotics Club at SFSU, dedicated to learning robotics through hands-on building, Scratch and Python programming, inspired by MIT OCW's 'Experimental Robotics (2007)' course, and fostering a collaborative community with Wiki World University and School."

    • Why online? Emphasize accessibility for students with busy schedules, those commuting, or those who prefer remote learning environments. Highlight the benefits of a geographically dispersed community.

    • Why Lego Spike Prime? It's a current, engaging, and versatile platform for learning robotics, suitable for both beginners and those with some experience.

    • Why MIT OCW "Experimental Robotics (2007)"? Acknowledge its foundational principles in robotics, mechanics, electronics, and programming. While the tech is older, the underlying concepts remain relevant and provide a strong academic backbone. The club will adapt these concepts to modern Lego Spike Prime kits.

    • Why Wiki World University and School? Leverage their mission for open education and community-driven learning. Explore how they can provide a platform, resources, or mentorship.

Phase 2: Curriculum, Platform, and Resources

  1. Curriculum Development (Blended Approach):

    • MIT OCW "Experimental Robotics (2007)" as a backbone: Review the syllabus, projects, and study materials. Identify core concepts (software design, electrical engineering, mechanical design, control systems, AI basics) that can be adapted to Lego Spike Prime.

    • Lego Spike Prime Official Resources: Utilize Lego Education's Spike Prime lesson plans and activities. These are specifically designed for the kits and cover Scratch-based programming initially, transitioning to Python.

    • Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy: Their curricula for LEGO SPIKE Prime ("Coding and Computational Thinking with LEGO SPIKE Prime," "RoboCamp with Virtual SPIKE Prime") are excellent resources for structured learning in both Scratch and Python. They even offer virtual Spike Prime environments, which are great for an online club.

    • Scratch & Python Progression: Design a progressive curriculum:

      • Beginner: Focus on Scratch for visual programming and basic robot control.

      • Intermediate/Advanced: Introduce Python for more complex algorithms, sensor integration, and data analysis.

    • Project-Based Learning: Emphasize hands-on projects that encourage creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Examples from the MIT OCW course (dead reckoners, servo motor control, exploring physics of robotics) can be adapted.

    • "Special Topics": Incorporate flexible "special topics" as suggested by the MIT OCW course, chosen by club members (e.g., advanced AI, specific sensor applications, competitive robotics challenges).

  2. Online Platform Selection:

    • Learning Management System (LMS):

      • SFSU's LMS (Canvas, if available): This would be ideal for integrating with the university, managing members, sharing resources, and potentially hosting discussions.

      • Alternatively, a dedicated platform: Consider platforms like Google Classroom, Discord (for real-time interaction, voice/video channels, text chat), or a combination of tools.

    • Code Sharing and Collaboration:

      • GitHub/GitLab: Essential for Python code sharing, version control, and collaborative projects.

      • Scratch online editor: Members can easily share and remix Scratch projects.

    • Virtual Robotics Simulators: Platforms like the virtual SPIKE Prime offered by Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy are invaluable for online members who might not have physical kits initially.

    • Video Conferencing: Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams for weekly meetings, workshops, and guest speakers.

  3. Lego Spike Prime Kits:

    • Club Kits: Explore options for the club to acquire a few Lego Spike Prime kits that members can borrow (if local) or that can be used for demonstration purposes during online sessions.

    • Personal Kits: Encourage members to acquire their own kits if possible, but don't make it a barrier to entry. Offer guidance on where to purchase.

    • Virtual Options: Emphasize the use of virtual Spike Prime simulators for those without physical kits, ensuring everyone can participate in coding and design aspects.

Phase 3: Community Building and Engagement

  1. Regular Online Meetings:

    • Scheduled Sessions: Host weekly or bi-weekly online meetings for project discussions, troubleshooting, skill-building workshops, and social interaction.

    • Flexible Timings: Offer multiple session times or record sessions to accommodate diverse student schedules.

    • Guest Speakers: Invite SFSU faculty, industry professionals, or alumni working in robotics/STEM to share their experiences.

  2. Collaborative Projects:

    • Team Challenges: Organize small group projects where members collaborate on designing, building, and programming a robot to solve a specific challenge.

    • Hackathons/Build-A-Thons: Host themed online events where members have a set time to create and present their robot solutions.

    • Open-Ended Exploration: Provide opportunities for members to pursue their own creative robotics projects and share their progress.

  3. Knowledge Sharing and Peer Support:

    • Dedicated Discussion Forums: Create channels (e.g., on Discord or the chosen LMS) for members to ask questions, share resources, troubleshoot issues, and showcase their creations.

    • Mentorship Program: Pair more experienced members with beginners to provide guidance and support.

    • "Show and Tell" Sessions: Encourage members to present their robot builds, code, and project experiences.

  4. Integration with Wiki World University and School:

    • Define Collaboration Scope: How will this collaboration work?

      • Content Sharing: Can the club contribute to or leverage Wiki World University's open educational resources related to robotics?

      • Platform Integration: Can Wiki World University provide a space or tools for the club's online activities?

      • Community Cross-Pollination: How can members from both communities interact and learn from each other?

      • Joint Events/Workshops: Explore co-hosting online workshops or events.

    • Formalize the Partnership: Reach out to Wiki World University and School to discuss a formal collaboration agreement, outlining mutual benefits and responsibilities. This could be a significant unique selling proposition for your club.

  5. Promoting the Club:

    • SFSU Channels: Utilize SFSU's student club directory, social media, student email lists, and campus events (virtual or in-person) to recruit members.

    • Social Media: Create a strong online presence on platforms relevant to SFSU students.

    • Partnerships: Collaborate with other STEM clubs or departments at SFSU to broaden reach.

    • Demo Videos/Showcases: Create engaging videos of Lego Spike Prime robots in action and share student projects.

Phase 4: Long-Term Growth and Sustainability

  1. Officer Transitions: Establish a clear process for officer elections and training to ensure continuity.

  2. Feedback and Evolution: Regularly solicit feedback from members to improve the club's activities, curriculum, and online experience.

  3. Competition Participation: Consider participating in online or hybrid Lego robotics competitions (e.g., FIRST Lego League, RoboCupJunior, or local/regional events if SFSU members are able to meet in person).

  4. Funding: Explore opportunities for funding from SFSU student organizations, grants, or sponsorships to acquire more kits, tools, or support online platform subscriptions.

  5. Showcasing Achievements: Highlight student successes, projects, and learning outcomes to attract new members and demonstrate the club's value.

By following these steps, focusing on both official university requirements and a robust online learning environment, you can build a thriving online Lego Spike Prime Robotics Club at SFSU that effectively leverages MIT OCW content, integrates with Wiki World University, and cultivates a passionate community for robotics, Scratch, and Python. Good luck!







* 

Dear Aidan, 


As a follow up, I also searched on "robotics at SF State" ... and interestingly to me there's a robotics' program developing at SF State ... :)  ... Something possibly for you to tap into? 

Scott





PS
San Francisco State University (SFSU) is developing its robotics program, with a focus on both academic and research opportunities. The university's new Science & Engineering Innovation Center will house a Robotics and Mechatronics Lab, supporting interdisciplinary robotics, mechatronics, and controls curricula. This lab will also be used for faculty research in areas like healthcare robotics and human-centric automation. Additionally, SFSU offers a hands-on robotics course, ENGR 870, focusing on applied control techniques and incorporating robot hardware for practical experience. 
Here's a more detailed look:
Academic Programs and Courses:
  • .Opens in new tab
    This graduate-level course, with prerequisites for undergraduate students, introduces students to robot control techniques using hands-on experience with robot hardware. 
  • Potential for interdisciplinary programs:
    .Opens in new tab
    The Robotics and Mechatronics Lab will enable the development of interdisciplinary programs in robotics, mechatronics, and controls, potentially involving various departments. 
  • Strong foundation for robotics:
    .Opens in new tab
    Students interested in robotics can benefit from majors like Computer Science, providing a strong foundation in programming and software development, crucial for robotics. 
Research:
Extracurricular Opportunities:
Other relevant information:




* 

Hi Aidan, 

I looked for you as I left ... But didn't see you.

Further brainstorming, might you be interested  in co-starting such a SFSU - WUaS Lego Robotics' club with programming (or at least with this idea in the back of your / our minds - to potentially to develop a WUaS Home Robotics' program / course such that SF State students and graduates and you as an option could eventually teach this online at MIT OCW -centric wiki World Univ & Sch to pur matriculated students from all 200 countries even).

Thanks for letting me know to your looking through some of the M WUaS News & Q&A emails ... helpful to have that feedback.

Regards, more later, best wishes, 
Scott






* * 


Hi Aidan, 


As a further followup, it's possible that SF State Robotics' department already has some Lego Spike Prime Robotics' kits ... ("San Francisco State University (SF State) has a strong robotics' focus within its Mechanical Engineering department" ... in room 311 of the Science and Engineering (SEC) building. The address is 1600 Holloway Avenue ...) ... and if so, would you like to meet face to face possibly in the first week of September after SF State's fall term begins on August 20th ... and to explore these ideas further, as well as to explore the first  Lego Spike Prime Robotics' kit tutorial? Seems like it would be worth checking ... and re beginning a potential SFSU-WUaS online (Lego Spike Prime) Robotics and programing club for makey makey and online robot building and coding, brainstorming.

Scott

Blogged about some of this here 

and here - 







* 


https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/facts/tardigrades-water-bears



https://www.britannica.com/animal/tardigrade



https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/20/SEM_image_of_Milnesium_tardigradum_in_active_state_-_journal.pone.0045682.g001-2_%28white_background%29.png/1371px-SEM_image_of_Milnesium_tardigradum_in_active_state_-_journal.pone.0045682.g001-2_%28white_background%29.png


https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/cd/SEM_image_of_Milnesium_tardigradum_in_active_state_-_journal.pone.0045682.g001-2.png/1563px-SEM_image_of_Milnesium_tardigradum_in_active_state_-_journal.pone.0045682.g001-2.png?20170715180322


https://www.sciencenews.org/article/tardigrades-dna-damage-radiation-death




https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tardigrade

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Tardigrada


https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/facts/tardigrade


...


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