RoBallet: exploring learning through expression in the arts through constructing in a technologically immersive environment

Abstract

We present the RoBallet environment as an interesting area for learning in a variety of domains through augmenting performing arts with technology. In the RoBallet environment children choreograph dance movements while wearing sensors and wireless microcontroller boards as well as having more sensors and devices in the environment. The children build robots, and program them, animations, light, and music they compose to respond to their movements. We have a few primary goals in this endeavor; to open new areas for exploration, to use technology to augment expression, and to open creative and expressive uses of technology, mathematics and science to children who may otherwise have no interest. We describe a workshop we ran in conjunction with the National Dance Institute, discuss what we learned, and present our ideas for future development.