Get Started with WeDo

LEGO WeDo is a robotics kit designed for younger students. The original WeDo set was released in 2009. WeDo 2.0 was released at the beginning of 2016.

WeDo 2.0 (45300)

LEGO WeDo 2.0 Core Set
LEGO WeDo 2.0 Core Set (45300)

The LEGO Education WeDo 2.0 Core Set (45300) contains 280 pieces, including a motor, and tilt sensor, and motion sensor. The WeDo 2.0 Software is available for desktops and tablets and is free to download.

WeDo 2.0 features a programmable SmartHub that connects to a computer or tablet via Bluetooth Low Energy, meaning that there is no longer a need to physically tether creations to a computer (as was required with the original WeDo kit). The SmartHub is powered by either two AA batteries or a rechargeable battery pack (purchased separately).

Links to download the WeDo 2.0 software can be found on LEGO Education Downloads. Curriculum support that is targeted to science and computing is available from within software. Additional curriculum materials are also available from LEGO Education.

WeDo (1.0 and 2.0) can also be programmed using Scratch.

WeDo 1.0 (9580)

LEGO WeDo 1.0 Core Set
Original LEGO WeDo Core Set

The original LEGO WeDo Core Set (9580) has 158 pieces, including two sensors (tilt and motion), a motor, and a USB hub. Creations need to remain tethered to the computer for power and to follow a program. Although it is possible to untether the WeDo by powering the motor directly, it will not follow a program.

Links to download the WeDo software can be found on LEGO Education Downloads.

Additional resources

Here are some additional resources to help you get started with the WeDo kit:

Browse all LEGO WeDo posts on this site.

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Wayne Burnett

Wayne Burnett

Wayne Burnett, Ed.D., is a Canadian father of two boys (both of whom used the Mindstorms NXT) who teaches at an international school in Malaysia. In addition to teaching robotics, ICT, and information literacy, Wayne has recently completed a doctoral dissertation on using the LEGO WeDo to teach science.
Wayne Burnett

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