Question 1

Why Scratch and will we be offering other coding programs as well?

Accepted Answer

MIT’s Scratch program is kind of the LEGO of coding.  It’s used by millions around the world and teaches complex concepts and problem solving logic with age-appropriate tools.  “With Scratch, you can program your own interactive stories, games, and animations — and share your creations with others in the online community”  https://scratch.mit.edu
 
While we use other coding languages for older students, those are not yet available as part of the on-demand subscription program.  Scratch helps young people learn to think creatively, reason systematically, and work collaboratively — essential skills for life in the 21st century.

Question 2

There are other video game design virtual programs available.  What makes The Robot Garage unique?

Accepted Answer

We’ve been teaching Scratch for years and have developed a unique teaching formula to address questions that can arise.  We know where kids get confused and we address this head on with each project.  The goal is to have each student design 3 new games a month they can be proud of.  There is no question that success leads to confidence which leads to continued engagement and learning… painlessly.

Question 3

Do students need to register for the whole year?

Accepted Answer

For Virtual Classes, students can join at the start of any month and are billed monthly.  Payments can be paused or stopped at any time before the 20th of each month.  Please email us at programs@therobotgarage.com if you’d like to stop your next payment.

For in-person classes students can join at the start of any month, although they can join mid month if we have an open spot. In-person classes can be cancelled at any time before the 25th of each month.  Cancellations made after the 25th will receive a 80% refund. There will be no refunds once classes have begun.

Question 4

What is the difference between virtual video classes and the in-person classes?

Accepted Answer

Virtual video class subscriptions are designed to reach students anywhere in the world. Because students have access to the videos at home projects can be done at their own pace.  Pause the video and take a break or replay a section that didn't make sense the first time. 
 
In-person classes are a more traditional environment with other students and at teacher leading the class and assisting as needed.  
 
In both cases, students have access to the same great teachers, and same great projects. In-person classes cost more to cover our instructors’ costs.

Question 5

How do I access my self-paced video classes?

Accepted Answer

The video portal is where you will find all of the welcome videos needed to get everything set up. These videos will explain how to make an account and navigate the website.

Step 1: Click on the Subscription Login button in the upper right. Here you will enter the email address used to purchase your subscription.

Step 2: We will immediately send an email to that address with the code you will need to enter the portal. Enter the code where indicated and you're logged in!

Step 3: Once you have watched the Welcome videos, you’re ready to start your first lesson. As a bonus to new families, we have included three Introduction to Scratch classes to help familiarize students with the Scratch environment and coding basics.

Question 6

What type of computer setup is required?

Accepted Answer

Scratch can be run using most current web browsers on laptops, desktops, and tablets.  We recommend using a second screen to keep both the video and Scratch programming screen up at all times.

THE ROBOT GARAGE

Scratch Game Design

(Grades 3-5)

Video Game Design (Scratch)

$99/mo In-Person Classes

In-Person Class Schedule

What Parents Are Saying

Frequently asked questions

Why Scratch and will we be offering other coding programs as well?

There are other video game design virtual programs available. What makes The Robot Garage unique?

Do students need to register for the whole year?

What is the difference between virtual video classes and the in-person classes?

How do I access my self-paced video classes?

What type of computer setup is required?

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