ScratchJr Tangible Prototypes

DevTech’s new project, ScratchJr Tangible, explores how to create a coding playground with ScratchJr that extends beyond the screen. The two prototypes being developed are ScratchJr Blocks and ScratchJr Bots. ScratchJr Blocks allows the coding experience to be done off-screen, and ScratchJr Bots takes the app’s output off-screen by empowering ScratchJr coders to program a physical robot. Both prototypes are still early in their design phase and not ready to be widely implemented in educational settings.

ScratchJr Blocks

With ScratchJr Blocks, children can engage with physical blocks to program in a hands-on, collaborative, and screen-free way. When their programs are ready, children can then utilize the camera feature of their device to scan their programs and bring their digital stories and games to life. ScratchJr Blocks blocks can be made from paper, cardboard or clay using our ScratchJr Blocks Stencils, or they can be 3D printed or laser cut using our ScratchJr Blocks open source design files.

ScratchJr Bots

ScratchJr Bots empowers children to program and interact with a physical robot, witnessing their code come to life in real-time. With ScratchJr Robotics, children can unleash their creativity by not only coding the robot’s behavior but also customizing its aesthetic appearance, facilitating the exploration of robotics through avenues such as storytelling, game design, and beyond.