Orbotix launches SPRK, company's first robotics-based education program for kids, teachers

By: InnovatioNews Friday April 18, 2014 0 comments Tags: Adam Wilson, Boulder, Orbotix, Paul Berberian, Sphero, SPRK

BOULDER - Toy maker Orbotix announced the launch of the company's first education program called SPRK, fusing technology with robotics for an app-controlled toy offering a new kind of open-play and education experience.

Orbotix's best known toy is Sphero, a device-controlled ball with infinite play possibilities.

Orbotix said it created the SPRK program because play is a powerful teacher, and SPRK's objective is to inspire and teach tomorrow's inventors and innovators.

"In 10 years, if a child points back to Sphero as their inspiration to becoming an engineer, we've done our job," said Adam Wilson, Orbotix co-founder.

Orbotix said over the past year it has worked with more than 50 schools and teachers to bring learning with Sphero closer to the classroom.

The company has also donated $50,000 worth of Spheros and resources to support teachers, schools and communities. With the launch of SPRK, Orbotix said it has made it easy for any school of club to get started on their own.

"When you incorporate tech tools that inspire, challenge and provoke deep thinking, you empower learning," said Robin Hosemann, teacher at Evergreen and Prairie View Elementary schools in Wisconsin.

Sphero can be found online and in more than 6,000 storefronts worldwide, Orbotix said.

"SPRK is a partnership between us, parents, teachers and kids," said Paul Berberian, Orbotix CEO. "We want to empower teachers while engaging kids in learning."