Robotics Workshop

Build. Code. Test. Refine. Bring Robots to Life.

Robotics at SPARKGROUNDS is built around real systems, real challenges, and real problem-solving—not step-by-step kits or scripted builds.

Participants work with platforms like Sphero BOLT+, mBot, and Arduino-based systems to design, program, and control robotic behavior. Students begin with approachable block-based coding and, as they’re ready, move into Python and more advanced control. Along the way, they don’t just “run code”—they learn how to think like engineers: breaking down problems, testing solutions, debugging failures, and refining performance.

Each session introduces new challenges, new constraints, and new ways to approach a problem. Returning students don’t repeat work—they take on more complex systems, more advanced programming, and deeper levels of control. A first-time student might be learning how to move a robot with precision or respond to a sensor; a returning student might be building multi-step autonomous routines, integrating multiple inputs, or optimizing for speed, accuracy, and reliability.

Work ranges from foundational builds to complex, evolving challenges—always grounded in how robotics is actually used in the real world.

• Builds real engineering and problem-solving skills through hands-on work
• Uses real robots, sensors, and programming tools (block and Python)
• Designed for both new and returning students at multiple levels
• Students build, program, test, and refine working robotic systems

Classes meet every other week, giving students time between sessions to think, test ideas, and improve their solutions.

Fall 2026 Topics

• Week 1: Systems Boot-Up — Control, Movement, and Accuracy
• Week 2: Sensor Integration — Seeing and Responding
• Week 3: Logic & Flow — Multi-Step Decision Making
• Week 4: Human vs. Autonomous — Control vs. Independence
• Weeks 5-6: Coordinated Systems — Multi-Input, Multi-Output Control
• Week 7: Optimization Lab — Speed, Efficiency, and Reliability
• Week 8-9: Final Challenge — Design, Build, and Execute

Guardians are required to complete our waiver before the first club meeting--if they haven't already done so for a different SPARKGROUNDS event. All events are led by professionally trained and insured staff who have passed a Level 2 background check. Students can withdraw from a class series at any time simply by emailing us and prorated refunds are always provided automatically.

This SPARKGROUNDS event is available for direct pay through Florida's Step Up FES-EO, UA, and PEP scholarships. Find events in the Marketplace by selecting 'find providers' and searching for 'SPARKGROUNDS.'