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Smart Automation Curriculum

 
 
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Smart Automation: Coding for a Connected World course empowers middle school students in grades 6–8  to become the next generation of tech innovators. This program empowers learners to explore how everyday objects—from smart cars to wearable tech—are transforming through automation using IoT. Utilizing the Makeblock HaloCode and mBlock 5 software, you will gain hands-on experience in coding, designing, and creating smart solutions.

Offered exclusively by NextWaveSTEM®, our hands-on curriculum is already trusted by over 500 schools and has impacted 200,000+ students across the U.S. For teachers and schools, the curriculum comes with full support: expert in-person or virtual instruction from certified NWS educators, turnkey materials, and alignment with ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education) Standards, Common Core State Standards (CCSS), and CSTA standard guidelines. Flexible scheduling makes it perfect for in-school, after-school, or summer sessions.

Why Smart Automation?

 

A Simple Start to Programming

Introducing a block-based coding language from mBlock provides an easy-to-understand approach to programming. Unlike traditional text-based programming languages, block-based coding uses visual blocks to represent code, making it easier for students to grasp the basic concepts of programming without needing to worry about syntax. This approach allows students to focus on the logic of coding rather than getting bogged down in technical details, providing a solid foundation for more advanced programming in the future.

Improves Problem-Solving Skills

Smart internet of things (IoT) automation is as much about problem-solving as it is about coding. In each lesson, students are challenged to think critically and logically, developing their ability to solve complex problems step by step. These are core skills that extend far beyond the classroom, equipping students with a mindset that’s essential for any profession.

Real-World Learning with Actual Devices

A standout feature of this course is its emphasis on hands-on learning. Students don't just learn the theory behind automation using IoT—they get to work with real-world devices and software. This type of learning bridges the gap between abstract concepts and tangible applications, helping instill confidence in students and providing a deeper understanding.

Prepares You for STEM Careers

As industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation increasingly rely on automation, the demand for skilled professionals in these fields is skyrocketing. Students who gain experience with smart IoT and automation early on are well-positioned for careers such as automation specialist, robotics engineer, software developer for IoT, and data analyst in these high-demand sectors.

The future’s automated. Be the one who builds it. Enroll in our Smart Automation course today.

 

FAQs

  • Smart automation integrates internet connectivity, allowing devices to collect and share data in real-time, while traditional automation focuses on performing repetitive tasks without connectivity.

  • Students will develop a variety of important skills in the Smart Automation course, including coding, problem-solving, and understanding how IoT devices communicate with each other. These skills lay a strong foundation for careers in robotics, IoT development, and automation technologies.

  • Smart automation and IoT (Internet of Things) are closely related, but they are not the same. IoT refers to the network of physical devices connected to the internet to collect and share data. Smart automation, on the other hand, takes IoT a step further by automating tasks and enabling intelligent decision-making based on the data collected.

  • In this course, students use the Makeblock HaloCode device and mBlock 5, a block-based coding language similar to Scratch, to build IoT-based solutions. They’ll also work with mLink software, which allows them to program their projects.

  • Our course provides students with everything they need to get started with smart automation, including lesson presentations, printables, and lesson plans. For further learning, students can explore online platforms, coding websites, and smart IoT resources to continue their learning beyond the course.