ISTE LIVE 2026 - VEX Robotics - Alaina Haws

About this episode

Unlock how AI and robotics revolutionize education—transforming abstract coding into tangible learning experiences for students of all levels. Alaina Haws, senior education developer at VEX Robotics, reveals how cutting-edge AI vision sensors and interactive curriculum models are making complex concepts accessible, engaging, and inspiring the next generation of innovators.

In this episode, Alaina shares her unconventional journey from museums across the US to educational technology, emphasizing the power of hands-on learning and curiosity-driven exploration. Discover how AI vision sensors—like the VEX AIM robot—bring visibility to the invisible, helping students grasp what once seemed too abstract, like tuples and machine perception. You'll also learn about the innovative macro block approach that simplifies coding, making AI programming approachable for younger learners without sacrificing depth.

We break down concrete topics: how AI vision models are trained, the role of data sets in making robots recognize objects, and the importance of visual, tactile, and collaborative learning in fostering STEM confidence. Alaina discusses strategies for teachers to integrate AI seamlessly into their curriculum—whether through simple visual tools or advanced coding—empowering educators to teach complex concepts without prior expertise.

Why does this matter? Because understanding AI through robotics unlocks curiosity, builds digital literacy, and prepares students for a future where AI is everywhere—from space exploration to healthcare. Teachers who leverage these methods can ignite excitement, deepen comprehension, and cultivate lifelong problem-solvers.

Perfect for educators, STEM enthusiasts, and curious learners eager to embrace AI in the classroom—this episode offers actionable insights to make tech more tangible, accessible, and fun. Get ready to turn abstract algorithms into exciting hands-on adventures that inspire the innovators of tomorrow.