BluPants vs Wonder Workshop Blockly

BluPants is a free, web-based coding environment for programming robots. It is designed for children of all ages, including pre-readers, and supports block-based visual programming that can progress to Python. One environment supports BeagleBone, LEGO EV3, Raspberry Pi, and AlphaBot2-Pi, with robot-building tutorials and SD card images listed for several builds. Lessons move from basic commands to more complex computer-science challenges. Activities include moving a robot, picking up or dropping objects, transporting items, and using repetition loops. BluPants describes learning with a real robot in person or remotely, including a remote lesson using a distance sensor and loops. Lessons are compatible with online classes, and activities are linked to Hour of Code. The curriculum library runs in a browser, but there is no robot simulator.

Wonder Workshop Blockly is a visual programming app that lets children create programs for the Dash robot using coding challenges, puzzles, and creative projects. Its drag-and-drop interface introduces sequencing, loops, sensors, events, functions, variables, and conditionals, and the product is described as introducing coding to children as young as six. Blockly is available on iOS, Android, and Chrome. The Free Tier requires a physical Dash robot; a paid Make Wonder account adds Virtual Dash in Blockly on iOS and Chrome. Teachers with a Free Tier account or above can track student progress through Blockly Puzzles, including when students share devices. Blockly Pro is available on Chrome with a paid subscription and supports a transition from blocks to JavaScript while programming Dash. The apps do not require internet for use, but downloading requires internet, and Class Connect and web versions require an active connection. Listed paid plans include STEM Homeschool at $125 a year and STEM Classroom at $199 a year; the free tier is also listed.