EdScratch vs SaySpark

EdScratch is a free, browser-based block programming environment for Edison robots. Its vertical drag-and-drop language is based on Scratch and is described as suitable for students aged 10 and up, including those new to coding. It has versions for Edison V2 and V3, with blocks for driving, LEDs, sound, data, events, control, sensing, operators, and comments. Programs can control robot inputs, manipulate data, and use variables. A built-in bug box checks programs and displays warnings. Users can save programs to a computer and load saved EdScratch files into the online app. Edison V3 can receive programs by USB from a computer or by optical flashing from an iPad; V1 and V2 use the EdComm cable. A free lesson set offers 98 student activity options across six units, along with a teacher’s guide. EdScratch runs online on the web, Windows, macOS, iPadOS, and Android, and requires an internet connection. The interface is in English, while lesson resources are available in multiple languages.

SaySpark is a robotics education platform for children, available through the web, Windows 10 or 11, and an Android companion. Children speak requests to the Spark AI tutor, hear its plan in plain language, and ask follow-up questions. The Spark Mini robot adds a microphone, speaker, camera, ultrasonic sensor, and motion sensor for spoken interaction, vision, distance measurement, and turns. It can tackle unfamiliar mazes, explain decisions at junctions, and use its camera to confirm an exit. A browser simulator provides challenges, a sandbox, world builder, and WASD controls, with five prompts available without an account. Lessons are arranged by age band with XP, badges, and a visible learning path. Classroom activities use class codes; teachers receive rosters, leaderboards, and assessments. The Windows download includes more than 20 guided challenges across five domains. Early access is free, with every feature unlocked; Spark Mini is separate hardware.