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HomeWorkshop: Ranger Bots

Ranger Bots

Quicklink: https://nescitech.org/rangerbots

The mBot Ranger robot from MakeBlock can do amazing things by attaching basic sensors and coding their functions to control the robot.  This new workshop will introduce you to more fun problem-solving activities in the world of robotics.

A hands-on Makeblock mBot Ranger robotics course where students explore sensing, control, and planning in collaborative team projects. This course aims to teach software development and problem-solving skills through real-world robotic challenges through block-based programming. Students will learn to set up a robot, program LED signals, navigate with movement commands, and build intelligent behaviors using ultrasonic and IR sensors.


You will start with simple block-style command structure similar to "Scratch 3.0" to see the results fast. Then you will learn to manipulate real code based on Arduino code.  Each lesson shows you a new concept you can master and builds your skills so you’ll be ready to tackle more advanced concepts later.

This course will be taught by Jefferson Gonzalez Campos, a Robotics Engineering student at Worcester Polytechnic Institution (WPI).


Jefferson Gonzalez Campos is a Robotics Engineering and Electrical & Computer Engineering student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute from El Salvador, with a background in robotics, mechanical design, and hands-on STEM education. He earned a certificate in Robotics and Automation Technology through vocational high school, later completed an associate degree in Mechanical Design, and has experience mentoring and teaching students through Early College and MIT outreach programs. Outside of engineering, Jefferson is a freelance graphic designer, wrestler, and combat sports athlete, bringing creativity, discipline, and a hands-on teaching style to robotics and STEM education.

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Schedule & Duration

Ranger Bots: For Grades 4–10
Fee: $25 per workshop ($15 for members)

Take one of the two weekday Intro Workshops first, then the Challenge Workshop.

Part 1, Intro Level: 2-day workshop from 5–7pm (with snack break at 6pm)
 -- Wed Jun 17 and Fri Jun 19
 -- Wed Jun 24 and Fri Jun 26
 -- Wed Jul 14 and Fri Jul 16
 -- Wed Jul 22 and Fri Jul 24
 -- Wed Jul 29 and Fri Jul 31

Part 2, Challenge Level1-day workshop from 1–4pm (come for any time within the 3-hour block)
 -- Sat Jun 20
 -- Sat Jun 27
 -- Sat Jul 18
 -- Sat Jul 25
 -- Sat Aug 1
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There are TEN Ranger Bots ready for you to program, five configured in Tank mode and five in Race mode.

Course Goals

No prerequisites. This course is ideal for anyone just starting out in coding who would like to work with a ready-to-go robot. You may bring your own laptop to control the bots, but we will have computers here you can use.
Intro Level Goals:

 -- Set up the robot, blink LED lights, and use basic movement commands
 -- Learn how to use ultrasonic and IR sensors  
 -- Learn how to translate block-based programs into Arduino C code

Advanced Level Goals:


 -- Explore sensor integration by reading real-time data from ultrasonic and IR sensors
 -- Use the ultrasonic sensor to detect and avoid obstacles
 -- Follow a line using IR sensors and complete a mini "rescue mission"

Upcoming Events
Upcoming Workshops

Please be aware of our Cancellation and Refund Policies. For questions, e-mail info@nescitech.org or call 508-720-4179.

16 Tech Circle, Natick, MA
508-720-4179