Episode 264: Shaping the Future with Code
Join us on My EdTech Life as we discuss the impact of computer science education with Hal Speed, Head of North America for Robotical and advocate for global tech literacy. Hal shares his journey from the Micro:bit Educational Foundation to Robotical, highlighting his role in key initiatives like CSforALL and the K-12 Computer Science Framework. We’ll explore the features of Robotical's website, a hub for STEM learning and Marty the Robot, and how it's shaping modern education. Tune in for a great conversation about the intersection of technology, education, and future skills development.
00:27 Introduction and Welcome
00:57 Mission for YouTube Subscribers
01:20 Shout Out to Sponsors
01:40 Invitation to Join the Chat
01:52 Introduction to the Episode's Topic: Shaping the Future with Code
02:07 Guest Introduction: Hal Speed
03:36 Hal's Background and Journey into EdTech
05:39 The Importance of Computational Thinking and Coding
09:52 Hal's Work with Robotical and Marty the Robot
10:50 The State of Coding Programs in Schools
14:11 The Mission and Vision of Robotical
16:57 Exploring the Robotical Website and Resources
19:25 The Benefits of Marty the Robot in the Classroom
27:13 Marty's Controller and Sequencer Features
29:53 Introduction to Marty Blocks Jr.
30:07 Exploring the Interface and Features
30:51 Understanding the Emotional Expressions
30:58 The Importance of Humanoid Robots in Education
31:29 Exploring the Different Menus
31:59 The Benefits of a Single Ecosystem
32:25 The Impact of Marty on Students with Autism
32:43 Marty's Uniqueness and Impact on Student Engagement
33:27 Marty's Role in Supporting Multilingual Students
35:56 Exploring Marty Blocks and its Features
40:58 The Importance of Sensor Dashboard
42:04 The Role of Marty in Language Acquisition
43:15 The Power of Machine Learning with Marty
49:35 The Future of Education with Marty
51:59 The Challenges and Solutions in Education
53:40 The Power of Creativity in Learning
56:53 Conclusion: The Impact of Marty on Education
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Hal Speed
Head of North America
Hal Speed is an advocate for all students learning computer science as a springboard for socioeconomic mobility and the future prosperity of nations in the epoch of intelligent machines. He is currently the Head of North America for Robotical and is an advisor to nonprofits including Kid Spark Education, AI4K12, and tinyML4K12. Hal was previously the Chief of Global Engagement for the Micro:bit Educational Foundation.
Hal also founded CS4TX to coordinate activities across Texas and represent the state in the national CSforALL initiative and the Expanding Computing Education Pathways Alliance. He was on the writing team for the "K-12 Computer Science Framework" and is a past CSTA chapter president.
Previously, Hal held strategy and marketing roles with technology startups and corporations such as Dell, AMD and Texas Instruments. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and a master’s degree in business administration from Virginia Tech.
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