EAAI Workshop

Translating AI and Robotics Research into K-12 Outreach

Friday, January 23, 2026 | 2:00pm – 3:45pm
Sandra Roach, Visrut Sudhakar
 
 
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bot blitz 2
Workshop Overview

 This workshop teaches AI researchers how to translate their technical work into effective K-12 outreach that reaches all students. Learn our proven six-stage framework for transforming research into age-appropriate learning experiences. 

Duration: 1hr 45 minutes  

Register here: https://duke.is/eaai26 

 

Workshop Structure 

  • Framework Overview (20 min): Introduction to our six-stage collaboration model
  • Bot Blitz Case Study & Live Demo (30 min): Watch Sphero RVR+ robots in action while we explain the framework application
  • Application Workshop (30 min): Apply the framework to your own research in small groups
  • Open Discussion (25 min): Develop preliminary outreach plans and identify strategies for building equitable community partnerships 

Register here: https://duke.is/eaai26 

Learning Objectives
  • Apply a systematic framework to translate your AI research into K-12 learning experiences.
  • Select robotics platforms and design curriculum scalable across grade levels.
  • Create action plans with mechanisms for data collection and iterative improvement.
  • Build equitable partnerships with community organizations.
Workshop Structure
20 min

Framework Overview

Introduction to our six-stage collaboration model

25 min

Bot Blitz Case Study & Live Demo

Watch Sphero RVR+ robots in action while we explain the framework application

30 min

Application Workshop

Apply the framework to your own research in small groups

Case Study

Bot Blitz emerged from a collaboration between AI researchers studying autonomous systems and education specialists, resulting in narrative-driven robotics workshops using Sphero RVR+ robots. Concepts addressed include:

  • Sensor fusion and environmental perception
  • Autonomous decision-making and path planning
  • Real-time environmental response
  • Machine learning and computer vision basics
  • Human-robot interaction principles

🎪 Bot Blitz Junior (Grades 5-8)

Duration: 4 hours

Narrative: State Fair Adventure

Students program robots to navigate fairground obstacle courses, complete scavenger hunts, compete in search & rescue missions, and conclude with the "Chinese Lantern Festival" challenge to find "Athena Owl."

🏙️ Bot Blitz Advanced (Grades 8-12)

Duration: 75 minutes

Narrative: Code City in Chaos

During a mysterious blackout, students program City Gridlock Ops Team robots to gather essential supplies and navigate to safety, teaching autonomous decision-making and path-planning.

 

Join Us

Transform your AI research into accessible K-12 outreach that reaches all students. Register here: https://duke.is/eaai26