Wait Time

Year after year, it is my goal to continue to grow and improve the robotics program we have. After evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the class, an identified improvement was the need of a non-verbal way of communicating students’ need for assistance.

londa_wait2As part of Robotics class in second grade, we introduce students to the “Wait” option when asking for help. On each work station, a LEGO magnet is affixed to a metal cabinet with two minifigures. One minifigure, Jack, has green pants- representing, “I am good to go, no questions.” The other minifigure, Jill, has orange pants-meaning, “Caution, I have a question, but I will ‘wait’ and do some problem solving while the teachers helps other students.” Not only does this encourage students to work through their difficulties on their own, it is also a great classroom management technique. Students are less likely to shout out when they need assistance.

londa_wait1This “Wait Time” strategy allows students a moment to “wait” and work through initial failure as a demonstration of their growth mindset and a stepping stone to finding a solution. This waiting process is not just beneficial for the students; it allows the teacher time to not only consider possible solutions themselves but reach each child and have the peace of mind that the students aren’t sitting idle. This technique has benefited the program as a whole; it is truly amazing that something as simple as two LEGO minifigures and a magnet can be representative of so much more.

The following two tabs change content below.
Londa Posvistak

Londa Posvistak

I have taught students of all grade levels, kindergarten through grade 12. Six years ago, I opened a computer and robotics lab at my PK-12 school in Southern California. The lab has since evolved into a makerspace for innovation. At any time you can stop by the lab and see students incorporating LEDs, sewing, using Arduino, Thymus, KIBO, Dot and Dash, as well as LEGO Mindstorms NXT/EV3 robots. I am currently a student at Tufts University in the Early Childhood Technology certification program.
Londa Posvistak

Latest posts by Londa Posvistak (see all)