Creating engaging learning experiences in a blended environment requires tools that are both intuitive and adaptable. Class Connect and Dash’s Neighbourhood were introduced within TCDSB to provide an easy‑to‑manage, user‑friendly solution that supported both virtual and in‑person learning. By maintaining student engagement while introducing accessible coding options, this approach demonstrates how thoughtful technology integration can enhance learning continuity and flexibility in evolving classroom settings.

"Class Connect allows us to introduce coding in a virtual environment, but also contains the opportunity for rich blended learning as needed in the next year where there are still many unknowns. Engaging teachers and students with Dash's neighbourhood also allows for the promotion of the Experiential Learning Cycle: Participate, Reflect, Apply. Where, after participating in some of the puzzles and activities, students will have the opportunity to reflect upon and consolidate their learning, to eventually apply it to a new context."

Rachel Allen Experiential Learning Resource Teacher for the TCDSB

Challenge

Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) was interested in a classroom management tool that included virtual coding options , as education delivery moved online as a result of COVID-19. The overall goal was to maintain student engagement levels across elementary grades by offering an interactive coding learning experience that did not rely on physical robots and that was easy to manage remotely for the educators.

Solution

Designed to augment Wonder Workshop's Dash robot and Blockly coding language, Class Connect provides a tool that teachers can use to monitor students' progress in real time. A user friendly dashboard provides updates on where a student might be struggling or excelling Class Connect includes recommended resources to address various needs depending on ability levels. Another feature is Dash's Neighbourhood, a virtual 3D environment where you can program Dash online using Blockly, without the need for a physical robot. This allows for a blended learning environment whereby some students may be at home without a robot and some in the classroom using the physical device, or the combination of the two.

Results

Teachers were excited to use Dash's Neighbourhood as a way to engage, or re-engage their students during a difficult few months of education. They used the tool in a variety of ways including for large or small groups, live virtual lessons and independent learning. Once students logged into the platform, engagement was high, with many students across the board completing multiple puzzles in their first sessions.

For more information, contact info@logicsacademy.com

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