WeDo 2.0 | JuniorSTEM | Lego Robotics

Lego WeDo 2.0

About Lego WeDo 2.0 45300

Lego WeDo 2.0 was launched in January 2016 following on from the successful original WeDo (now called 1.0). Lego WeDo consists of 2 main areas: The software to program electrical parts and the main box of Lego pieces – including the electronics.

WeDo 2.0 costs around £119 + VAT (£145) for the box of Lego but the APP is free to download.

Software

Like the original, the software is clear and intuitive making it easy to access for children as young as 5 years old at a simple level. Yet older children and adults find satisfaction in creating complex algorithms using the block programming commands to control the motors, sensors and computer functions. It connects to the computer via wireless Bluetooth connection unlike the previous version which uses a wire that plugs into a USB socket.

The WeDo 2.0 software comes in the form of an APP. It is FREE to download from Apple, Android or Microsoft. You do not have to buy the kit to download the APP so you could check it out before you order.

It works best on an Android tablet or Ipad. WeDo 2.0 is also compatible with Chromebooks and Windows. Your device will need to have Low Energy Bluetooth 4.0 pair with the APP, so older devices may not connect. Follow this link to check for compatible devices. Older Windows machines can use a ‘Bluegiga BLED112’ Bluetooth USB dongle – make sure you buy a Bluegiga BLED112 as the WeDo APP will only work with that specific make.

On first opening the APP you will find a helpful video to guide you through setting up. Menus explain the function of each programming block and each model comes with an algorithm to get your programming started. The software also includes instructions to make lots of different models as well as ‘open projects’ where you are set a design or programming challenge.

Users can also record their learning by creating documents of the projects they have undertaken complete with text, photos and videos of their creations.

There’s a lot to take in on this page but don’t worry, the WeDo APP is easy to use and great fun.

Buy Lego WeDo 2.0

The Box of Lego pieces and electronics – kit 45300

All the Lego pieces you need to build the models found on the APP are in this blue box. There are 280 altogether including the 4 electrical parts:

The Bluetooth Smart hub which allows you to connect your computer/tablet to your Lego
A motor
A motion sensor
A tilt sensor

There are many interesting pieces, wheels, gears and pulleys, as well as some very familiar bricks. It’s probably best to try to keep your new WeDo kit complete but the pieces are standard so will connect with Lego from your existing collection.

Don’t worry if you lose something, spares are available from the JuniorSTEM shop or ‘Bricklink’.

There are lots of great models to build but JuniorSTEM always encourages their pupils to decorate or upgrade after the instructions have finished. Play with it, have fun with it, then make it better. Designing your own creations without instructions is also brilliant fun.

Below you will find links to other sites where you can find even more designs and instructions created by other WeDo fans from all over the world.

Free Scratch Programming Software

Scratch is a free downloadable programming format that can be connected to the Lego WeDo motors and sensors. It is more powerful than the Lego software, but is more complex. Many schools are now using it to teach programming – there are lots of activities and support online.

Scratch is suitable for upper key stage 2 children.

Download Scratch