Kira is proud to launch Coding Robots with Finch, a new Kira course created in partnership with BirdBrain Technologies (now part of RT Thrive) and available exclusively to Tennessee educators.
This course builds on our popular Introduction to Computational Thinking course and gives students hands-on experience programming Finch robots. Every Tennessee middle and high school already has Finch robots thanks to a previous statewide initiative. Tennessee teachers can seamlessly use them right within the Kira platform teachers and students already use every day.
A robotics course designed for real classrooms
While designing this course, we understood that most schools have just a few Finch robots — typically 5 or 6 — making it tough for every student to get hands-on time.
To solve for this, Kira worked with Chris Gregg to develop an in-platform Finch emulator that lets students code and test their programs virtually. Whether they’re connected to a real robot via Bluetooth or using the emulator, students can see their code come to life with movement, lights, sound, and more.
What’s inside the course?
Interactive Finch programming activities, including moving around obstacles, LED control, line sensing, distance sensing, and sound
Built-in emulator so every student can participate — robot or no robot
Support for both real-time robot control and virtual feedback
Connect via bluetooth to Finch robots to run the same code in the emulator or in your classroom
Seamless grading tools for teachers with robot outputs displayed right in QuickGrader
Available now for Tennessee teachers
This pilot course is available exclusively to Tennessee schools through our partnership with BirdBrain. Teachers can assign lessons, monitor student progress, and watch their classrooms come alive with robotics.
Whether your students are future engineers or just starting out, Coding Robots with Finch makes robotics education engaging, accessible, and aligned with state goals.
Ready to bring robotics to your classroom?
1. Login to Kira
2. Click Browse courses
3. Find Coding Robots and click Add to section
4. Create the section and invite your students
