Software Foundation and Robotics Integration Certification
This course emphasizes real-world, hands-on learning through practical, problem-solving activities that mirror the skills used by robotics technicians. Using Arduino programming, students will build, program, and continuously improve their ShieldBot robots. By the end of the program, each student will have a fully functional ShieldBot capable of autonomous challenges, along with solid foundational skills in programming and robotics to support further exploration in the field.
The curriculum is entirely project-based, giving students the chance to learn by doing. With a commitment of 2–3 hours per week, motivated learners can complete the course in as little as 3–4 months. To earn a certificate, students must successfully complete all projects according to the provided specifications. These projects will be reviewed and approved by instructors before being submitted for upload. In addition, students must pass a final exam with a score of 70% or higher to complete the course and qualify for one of the SMART Robotics Technician certifications. There is an additional $200 fee for the certification.
This course was approved and endorsed by the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy (CMRA), a recognized leader in robotics and computer science education. CMRA researches how robots can be used as powerful tools to teach Computer Science, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (CS-STEM). Their mission is to expand access to CS-STEM for all learners through research-backed, classroom-tested curricula that highlight the most important STEM concepts.
Course Highlights
Unbox and identify all ShieldBot robot components.
Download the Arduino IDE and explore its programming environment.
Write your first program and test basic hardware functionality
Introduction to Arduino Programming and
ShieldBot Robot
Unbox and identify all ShieldBot robot components.
Download the Arduino IDE and explore its programming environment.
Write your first program and test basic hardware functionality
ShieldBot Assembly with Drive Motors
Assemble the ShieldBot’s Mobility, Power, and Control subsystems.
Write and test a program to make the robot turn and drive forward.
Open-Loop Navigation with Arduino Programming
Understand what open-loop navigation is and how it differs from feedback-based control.
Use Arduino code to control your robot’s timed movements and turns.
Design, test, and improve programs that guide the ShieldBot through simple paths and introductory navigation challenges.
Introduction to Sensors
Discover the different sensors on the ShieldBot, including whisker (bump) and light sensors.
Write programs that allow the robot to react to physical contact using its whisker sensors.
Integrating Sensors for Environmental Awareness
Use light sensors to detect changes in the environment and trigger specific robot behaviors.
Test, troubleshoot, and improve your sensor-based programs to make your robot more accurate and responsive.
Camera Navigation Configuration and Setup
Mount and set up the HuskyLens camera on the ShieldBot.
Create a blob detection program so the robot can recognize and track colored objects.
Camera Navigation Challenges
Use live camera data to help your robot detect and respond to visual targets and landmarks.
Tackle challenges like “Park in the Stall” by combining camera input with precision.
AI Application with Camera Navigation
Configuring the HuskyLens camera to perform facial and object recognition, and a long side line tracking.
Utilize an AI Algorithm to interpret visual inputs and guide robots’ navigation.
Sensing and Navigation Mini-Project
Develop a custom program that combines multiple sensors with coordinated motor control.
Run and refine your ShieldBot in a practice scenario to tackle a focused robotics challenge.
Final Project Design & Development
Plan, build, and test an autonomous navigation program that brings together everything you’ve learned in the course.
Apply sensors, loops, and camera-based navigation to solve a multi-step, real-world style problem.
Showcase & Course Wrap-Up
Demonstrate your ShieldBot’s abilities in a final showcase for peers, parents, or instructors.
Review key takeaways, connect them to real-world robotics and programming careers, and celebrate your progress with a certificate of completion (when requirements are met).
Who Should Enroll?
This course is a great fit for:
High school students who want a practical introduction to robotics, coding, or engineering.
Teachers and educators looking to gain hands-on robotics experience can bring it into their own classrooms or programs.
New learners with no prior background who are excited to dive into building and programming a robot.
Monday and Wednesday @ 6:00 - 7:30
Class Size: 1 to 10 students. Total Duration: 3-4 months. The duration of this class is determined by the student’s pace and goals.
Group Discount:
Groups of 2+: 10% off
SMART Robotics Software Integration Technician Certification
The robotics class follows the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy (CMRA) curriculum. Open Path Academy is an approved educational provider for the Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy. Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy issues certificates for robotics.
All robotics classes are held online. Students can complete their certifications as quickly as they are able. Earn one of the micro-credential CMRA certificates.
Tuition: $499
Supplies: $406.46 (After enrollment, the supply link will be emailed)
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