14 May 2025
Ardunio Alvik - CAS Physical Computing event
If you were unable to join us for the "Exploring Arduino Alvik for Physical Computing" online community meeting, don't worry! You can catch up on all the content and a recording of the session below.
Getting Hands-On with Arduino Alvik: A Scalable Physical Computing Tool for the Classroom
Key Takeaways:
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Arduino Alvik is a versatile, fully assembled robot designed for block-based, MicroPython, and Arduino C++ programming.
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Its cross-curricular potential allows it to support learning in subjects like geometry, astronomy, and engineering.
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The online Arduino platform provides step-by-step lessons for both block-based and text-based coding.
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Alvik is compatible with LEGO components, 3D printing, and external sensors—encouraging creativity and customisation.
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The robot is scalable, making it suitable for learners from age 7 up to university level.
Introducing Arduino Alvik
The latest CAS Physical Computing online community meeting featured a deep dive into the Arduino Alvik robot, led by Roxana Escobedo from Arduino. Alvik isn’t just a robot—it’s a full learning platform, designed to support students and educators from the first steps of coding to advanced robotics and physical computing projects.
Alvik is powered by the Arduino Nano ESP32 and comes ready to use, straight out of the box. It supports both block-based coding via mBlock (which will feel familiar to anyone who’s used Scratch) and text-based coding using MicroPython or Arduino C++. This flexibility allows students to grow with the robot, developing their skills over time.
What’s in the Box?
Alvik is packed with features: line-following sensors, a colour sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, capacitive buttons, motors, and a rechargeable LiPo battery. There are even three demo modes preloaded, so students can start exploring immediately. Teachers can access a wealth of free lesson content online—including a full suite of 11 mBlock and 10 MicroPython lessons—which introduces programming concepts step-by-step, alongside practical applications using the robot’s sensors and features.
Customisation and Creativity
One of the highlights of the session was the robot’s adaptability. Alvik can be customised using LEGO Technic pieces, M2/M3 screw connectors, and 3D-printed add-ons. Quick connectors make it easy to attach extra sensors without soldering. This makes Alvik an excellent choice for students who want to go beyond coding and explore engineering design, physical problem-solving, and creative robotics.
Cross-Curricular Potential
Beyond computing, Alvik has been used in lessons covering geometry (navigating angles with protractors), astronomy (modelling planetary orbits), and even time management (a student-designed Pomodoro-style study robot). These case studies, from primary school learners in Italy to engineering students at Tufts University, showcased Alvik's remarkable flexibility and scalability.
Next Steps for Teachers
This session encouraged teachers to think about how tools like Alvik could enhance learning across their curriculum. Here are some reflective questions and practical ideas to take away:
Reflective Questions:
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How might a physical robot like Alvik increase engagement in my computing lessons?
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Could physical computing help students better understand abstract topics in other subjects?
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Am I offering enough progression routes from block-based to text-based coding in my KS2–KS4 curriculum?
Classroom Ideas:
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Use Alvik to explore angles and measurement in KS2 maths through a robot navigation challenge.
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Run a cross-curricular project where students design and code a robot that supports wellbeing (e.g. reminders to take breaks).
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Set up a line-following maze for students to debug and optimise their code collaboratively.
Further Resources
Block based learning platform (account creation required)
Micropython learning platform (account creation required)
Thinking like Engineers, Dreaming like Innovators - Acera School's journey blog
Exploring the Moon and cultivating Earth blog
Personalise your robot with Lego Technik, 3D printing and more!